Wokingham granted borough status

Wokingham will soon be able to elect its first mayor after receiving Royal approval to become a borough.

The Berkshire district has successfully petitioned The Queen to grant a charter conferring borough status on it.

Council chairman Angus Ross said he hoped the decision would help to enhance the area's corporate image and create "a stronger unity".

The council will officially launch and celebrate its new status at a civic reception on 9 March.

Cllr Ross said: "Being granted the status of a borough and thereby having a mayor would bring us into line with the majority of Berkshire unitary authorities.

Freedom of borough

"It has become clear over the years that many people get confused over the role of the chairman of the council but they understand the functions of a mayor.

"The added status of being a borough would help the council to forge better links with business."

Wokingham District Council said it estimates the cost of the change of status would be "less than £1,500".

Borough status will give the council authority to honour people by granting them freedom of the borough.