Can you balance council’s books?

OLDHAMERS are being challenged to balance the council’s books with help from a new on-line simulator.

Residents can use the special software to suggest their own spending priorities.

Oldham Council, rated in the bottom 16 per cent of local authorities in England, is looking to close a budget gap of £17.3m.

Councillor Lynne Thompson, Cabinet member for finance, said: “This is very much about the council listening to what residents have to say.

“This will help us to deliver services which people feel are important.

“Residents might want to tell us which services they most want to see maintained or improved.

Or they might suggest which services they would be prepared to sacrifice to pay for such improvements.

“Householders might also want to have a say on council tax.”

A number of savings proposals have already been priced at nearly £10m. Last week, the council put forward further savings proposals to be considered for setting a balanced budget next year.

Councillor Thompson thanked residents who responded to the recent council spending questionnaire sent to a sample of borough residents.

The survey feedback together with that from the budget simulator will go towards the council’s budget planning process before recommendations are put before councillors at the end of the year.

Councillor Thompson added: “Knowing if people think these proposals are good or bad will be taken into account. We really want residents to give us their views.”

Access the budget simulator on the council website at www.oldham.gov.uk or e-mail views to budget challenge@oldham.gov.uk. Alternatively, simply post your comments to Oldham Council, Room 441, Budget Challenge Team, Civic Centre, Oldham OL1 1UG.

Submissions can also be made by calling 0161-770 5445.