St Editha's Church has resigned from the Tamworth Strategic Partnership Board, Tamworth Borough Council has confirmed. The decision marks a significant change in the church's involvement with local strategic planning in the town.
Stephen Gabriel, Chief Executive of Tamworth Borough Council, expressed disappointment at the church's departure. However, he emphasised that the council values the important role the church plays in community life across Tamworth and remains committed to working with the organisation.
The council is pressing ahead with its £21 million town centre regeneration programme, which is funded by the government's Future High Streets Fund. Additional transformation plans are also in development for the Gungate area and Ankerside shopping centre in Tamworth.
Despite St Editha's Church withdrawing from the partnership board, Tamworth Borough Council has stated it remains "wholly committed to working alongside the church" and is "open to partnership working" in future projects and initiatives.
The council's statement suggests that the resignation does not close the door on collaboration between the authority and St Editha's Church. How this affects future involvement in Tamworth's regeneration efforts remains to be seen.