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In a dynamic new approach Cornwall Council's Cabinet agreed yesterday to invest an extra £120 million in the coming year in order to improve services. It also agreed to make savings of nearly £40m to plough back into front line activities while limiting the Council tax increase to 2.9%, a quarter less than that proposed by the previous administration. Council Leader, Alec Robertson, said. “This represents some major steps on the road to recovery”. Mike Eathorne-Gibbons, Vice Chairman, Environment and Economy Scrutiny Committee, said, “The Financial Health Check commissioned by the new Authority identified huge financial problems - a legacy from the previous Lib Dem Administration. This was shown in a predicted deficit this year of £15m and revealed a culture of overspending and inefficiency. This overspend is now down to £2m through Conservative leadership and good housekeeping.”
“In addition, the Council was deemed by independent inspectors to be failing in some key services. The Conservatives, in partnership with Independents, are driving hard to get the Council back on track as soon as possible. We have the vision and plans to do so. We've set clear priorities and are confident of achieving our ambitious programme for Cornwall to thrive, despite the austere times we face. Drastic Government cut backs are expected. A very difficult economic climate lies ahead for struggling businesses and cash strapped individuals whose jobs are on the line.”
Dave Biggs, Vice Chairman, Corporate Resources Scrutiny Committee, added, “Our decisions today reflect a twin track approach of investment for best possible services at lowest possible cost and cutting out waste and inefficiency. Unlike the Lib Dems, who continue to play cheap political games, with Cornwall's future we shall continue to put the people of Cornwall first. We shall not shy away from taking tough decisions for their benefit. We know we've a long way to go but we cannot be expected to achieve results overnight. We are resolute in aiming to provide our residents with what they deserve. We will get there.”
Most of the extra money will go directly to enhancing front line services. The remainder will go to several support activities which will generate considerable benefits over the next few years. The savings come from close scrutiny of various back office functions while being smarter in what the Council does and how it does it.
Mike added; “I'm delighted that substantial monies have been earmarked to increase road maintenance and to improve the environment through the Green Cornwall Campaign.”
ENDS
Editors Notes
2. Investment in support activities to generate future savings:
3. Efficiency Savings:
For More Information contact:
Jim Currie, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Corporate Support
on Tel: 01872 865306, Bus. Tel: 01872 322571, Mob: 07528 983385
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