Council plans service cuts

A series of stinging cuts to services across Cannock Chase have been unveiled by the council as it looks to see how it can spend cash from the council tax.

Among plans being looked at to save money include closing bowling greens at Cannock and Hednesford parks, closing the last remaining public toilet in the district and removing a council allotments subsidy.

Cuts are in a draft council tax consultation examining where cash can be saved and also invested in new services.

A Local Government Association survey predicts a four per cent rise in council tax bills across the country.

Some savings may see an unspecified number of jobs go and unions have been briefed on possible plans.

Closing greens would save an estimated £22,300 in maintenance in the next financial year – increasing to £29,850 in 2009/10 and more than £30,000 the year after.

Closing Hednesford public toilet, near the bus station, the last remaining public toilet in the district, would save £13,620 in the next financial year and more than £14,000 by 2011.

Removing allotments subsidy would save £5,780 in 2009/10 and £5,900 in 2010/11.

Voluntary groups' grants may be cut, a £6,000 Press cutting service axed, and contact centre opening hours altered.

Spending plans may include continuing Christmas lights at £24,000 a year, providing recycling facilities in town centres at £7,200 and providing a response team for problems such as litter and dog fouling at a cost of £47,420.

Plans also include implementation of an equality and diversity plan at £30,000 a year for three years and appointing a sustainability officer at £16,150 in 2008/09 rising to £34,180 in 2009/10.

Results of consultation will got to the council cabinet on February 21 and recommendations considered by all councillors on February 27.