Council chiefs have slammed regulations barring councillors from accessing the Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS) as a ‘kick in the teeth' to dedicated local politicians – which risks making local representation the preserve of the wealthy.

The reaction follows yesterday's news that ministers had laid measures before Parliament to not only bridge existing schemes with the new LGPS arrangements set to take effect from 1 April - a year ahead of other public service pensions – but also finalise the regulatory framework for the reformed pensions.

From April under the reformed LGPS regime, new councillors and other elected office holders will be unable to enter the scheme and access will be terminated for elected members at the end of their current fixed term of office.

‘The reforms ensure that local government pensions are fair, affordable and sustainable in the long term, particularly in the light of changing demographics,' read a written statement from local government minister Brandon Lewis.

But Sir Merrick Cockell, chairman of the Local Government Association urged the Government to think again.

‘This is a kick in the teeth for those who have dedicated their life to public service and undermines government's commitment to give local people greater responsibility for the running of vital local services,' Sir Merrick said.

‘Fair remuneration is important so that people from all walks of life can afford to stand for office,' he added.

‘Otherwise, we risk local government becoming the exclusive preserve of a privileged few who have the luxury of time and money to spare.'