Labour’s alternative budget for BCP Council has been branded “reckless” by the Lib Dems
The Lib Dem run BCP Council has accused the local Labour party "underestimating the scale of financial pressures facing local authorities" following their alternative budget
Labour’s alternative budget proposals for BCP Council have been branded “a reckless threat to essential services” by the authority’s current leadership.
On 20 February, Labour councillors unveiled plans they say would redirect almost £5 million in additional council tax revenue into frontline priorities.
The proposals include £1.5 million to repair playgrounds, £500,000 to keep libraries open, £500,000 to tackle potholes and £2.4 million for essential frontline services.
Labour also wants to restore £2.2 million previously earmarked for accessibility improvements at Pokesdown Station, funding which is currently recommended to be withdrawn.
Labour group leader Councillor Patrick Canavan said the party’s proposals reflect concerns raised by residents.
“The Liberal Democrats are raising just under £5 million of additional council tax,” he said. “The BCP Labour Group propose to invest this money into the priorities they hear about on doorsteps and in community meetings.
“People tell us that playgrounds, potholes and Pokesdown Station really matter, and we agree.”
Cllr Canavan also pointed to national policy changes, saying the Labour government is paying off £165.2 million of BCP Council’s debt and taking over direct responsibility for special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) costs.
“This provides greater financial certainty for councils supporting young people with special educational needs and disabilities,” he said. “We want BCP Council to finally have financial sustainability.”
But the proposals have drawn sharp criticism from the Three Towns Alliance administration.
Council leader Councillor Millie Earl warned Labour’s plans underestimate the scale of financial pressures facing local authorities.
She said: “Taking reserves to a dangerous level reminds us of the crippling decisions made by former administrations and it is a reckless threat to essential services.
“We’ve worked hard to bring BCP Council back into a sustainable position to the benefit of local residents who use our services.
“With the Government having cut funding to BCP Council, as supported by the local Labour MPs, it’s essential we continue to take a prudent approach.”