An Oldham council is preparing for a historic change this year which has left residents "bewildered", according to one member.
In May, Shaw and Crompton Parish Council will officially become Shaw and Crompton Town Council - a move that derives no change to its powers, although some councillors believe it will help them "take control" over local government.
Independent Cllr Dennis Baker is in favour of the decision, claiming that the authority is treated unfavourably by the higher-tier Oldham Council.
"Oldham Council treats Shaw with contempt, and by becoming a town council we can take control," the former Liberal Democrat said.
"The way it's going we're fighting a losing battle because when you try to put things forward it just gets disregarded - it happens every time, they just aren't listening.
"I've been up to Oldham a few times and I can't understand why they are spending £20m on that Spindles development, but we in Shaw are paying council tax to Oldham and get nothing in return."
However, Cllr Louie Hamblett, who sits on both authorities, explained that the decision to move to town status came without consultation and has left residents he has spoken with "bewildered".
He said: "I feel like it's a bit of a disservice for the people that put the effort into forming the town council. It's just the wrong time, or at least that's how it feels.
"What's the cost of this? I don't know but it's not just the name on a sheet of paper, we'll have to change the name throughout the whole area.
"The residents I've spoken to are bewildered, they don't feel it's necessary - what's the point, there's bigger things to be doing that's what my residents think."
The Liberal Democrat told The Oldham Times that there will be "a lot of wastage" when the town does go through with it at the start of the next civic year in May, and claimed that it cost Oldham Council £147,000 in 2008 to rebrand - hinting that it may be a costly venture.
Meanwhile, Independent Cllr Marc Hince welcomed the move to become a town council. He added: "It's great for the community because it will mean we're heard and will have a greater say."
The move will mean the council will have a mayor for the first time in its history, just three years short of its 40th anniversary.
The Oldham Times contacted Oldham Council for comment but it did not reply by deadline.
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