Council must slash another £31 million

COUNCIL chiefs have warned there is “no fat left” as they search for ways of slashing another £31million from the budget by 2015.

Last night’s West Oldham District Partnership meeting was told the £100m already cut isn’t enough.

Elaine McLean, executive director for economy, place and skills, revealed that £17.7m must be saved next year and £13m the year after from the council’s operating budget of £225.3m.

Ms McLean said: “We’re going to have to look at what we deliver and whether it’s what we should deliver. It’s very difficult now because we’re at the stage where we’re saying ‘what do we do?’ There’s no fat left on the organisation.”

Ms McLean added: “Resources are diminishing but demand is on the increase. More people are unemployed and we have got a high population of vulnerable adults.”

She added that th council will be out of pocket as it shoulders the burden of council tax benefit cuts implemented by the government. More will be lost when health services are transferred into local government control next year. Academies have cost more than expected too.

Ms McLean said: “We’re a local, cooperative borough. We’re encouraging residents to get involved by changing behaviours to reduce spending in some areas.”

Council leader Jim McMahon will be taking part in a budget roadshow at the Spindles Shopping Centre during the week of October 15 and a “budget simulator” and online ideas forum will also be available for locals to take part in.

A “Big Budget Conversation” will also be taking place on October 22.





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