Published: Wednesday, 17th February, 2010 4:19pm

Tough times ahead in budget cuts

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Both SNP and Labour councillors have warned of further severe cuts to come in the coming years following this year's budget announcement as libraries and community halls come under scrutiny.

As revealed in the 'News' last week, North Ayrshire Council have been forced into making £9 million cuts with the loss of 145 full-time job losses including 38 teachers.

Elected members agreed to freeze Council Tax for a third year, benefiting every household in North Ayrshire, while the rent on council homes will increase by 2.6% to £55.54 per week.

However, a war of words has developed between councillors over the council tax freeze which has resulted in subsidy being stopped from central government to local councils if they increase council tax levels.

Labour councillor Alex Gallagher said: "I think it is we are all in very difficult positions. The first year was always going to be a tight budget and difficult choices will have to be made. The budget does deliver on a lot of the council priorities

"We have managed to maintain frontline services including the main issues such as education. We are losing teachers but it is not from the frontline staff. The main education and social services have been protected as far as possible. Cuts in community halls and the charges for these halls are all in the melting pot and will come under review."

SNP councillor Alan Hill said: "I think it is very disappointing. especially the cuts in education and after care around schools, and breakfast clubs.

"Losing after care will potentially have a very big effect on working families in the normal nature of things, it will fall harder on women and single parents and part time workers in particular."

North Ayrshire Council has agreed a budget that will support resources which "make a positive difference to individuals, families, businesses and communities".

Capital investments of £27m for Housing, and a two year package of £66m on General Services were agreed in addition to revenue budgets of £44m for Housing and £345m for General Services.

Full story in this week's Largs and Millport News.