Potholes, budget cuts and the streets of Galston
27 January-
Galston Christmas Snow 2009. Photo by Margot Dykes.
A recent report in The Herald reveals that councils across Scotland are facing an overspend of nearly double on winter maintenance budgets for gritting and snow clearance, with a national bill over nearly £100 million. These figures come on top of a previously-reported £1.8 billion backlog for repairs on roads across the country.
In the mean time East Ayrshire Council is planning to axe services in a bid to save £7 million, the Kilmarnock Standard reports.
Councils are being forced to come up with savings due to a 12 per cent funding reduction by central government over the next three years. These cuts will start to take effect from April.
EAC is currently conducting their Budget Consultation 2010-11. They are keen to consult as many individuals and organisations as possible on their budget proposals and arrangements are in place to give you the chance to learn about the Council's spending proposals and to have your views considered.
The consultation period runs until Monday 1 February 2010. See http://eac.eu/finance/budget/ for details of how to respond.
Note: Emergency faults e.g. accident damage, major flooding, potholes, etc. should be reported by phone to the East Ayrshire Helpline on 0845 7 24 00 00.
At least the money for the current regeneration work being done in Galston has been set aside previously. How do you think we'll be affected by planned budget cuts?
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