Guyra resident Rob Lenehan released the petition on Friday in response to many residents voicing their concerns following the 2016 merger with Armidale Regional Council.

“A small delegation of concerned ratepayers from the former Guyra Shire Council have compiled a petition to be circulated around the state via the many communities and councils affected by this unjustified and totalitarian form of government,” Mr Lenehan said.

“While many of us in regional NSW may be relieved to see the resignation of our Premier Mike Baird, it is now time for us to unite and rally against these undemocratic decisions made by the Baird Government prior to his spineless retreat.”

Mr Lenehan said the group are also calling on the National Party to stand up and truly represent their constituents instead of ignoring opinion and allowing the “Liberal top-end to ride rough-shot over them”.

NSW Nationals leader and member for Monaro, John Barilaro announced his support to bring an end to local government mergers in the bush.

“The policy of local government amalgamations has impacted 20 councils, 12 of which are in regional NSW causing uncertainty and anger, and others are locked in costly legal action – that all stops today,” Mr Barilaro said on Friday.

Mr Marshall said that he was encouraged by the Deputy Premier’s statement.

“I have been actively lobbying on the forced mergers since they occurred and my position hasn’t changed,” Mr Marshall said. 

Mr Marshall also said that the GANTY [Guyra Amalgamation No Thank You] petition will be taken to the Minister for response. 

Mr Lenehan said a number of amalgamated councils in NSW have claimed their dissatisfaction and will join Guyra in bringing the petition to the legislative assembly.

The petition calls to reverse forced amalgamation of regional councils and to reinstate those councils, forcibly amalgamated in 2016.