Town Halls and Community Centres could close in Budget plans

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MORAY COUNCIL HAS released the consultation documentation outlining proposals that would save almost £7million in their budget for 2018/19.

The savings that have been suggested to balance the budget are expected to save the council £6.7million – and now residents are being urged to take part in the discussion, which will run until January 14 before the budget is formally set in February 2018.

More details, including a downloadable ’Budget 2018’ guide – which outlines the proposed savings – can be found on Moray Council’s website

Included are proposals to close community centres at Dufftown and Cullen where there is no interest from the communities to take them over under Community Asset Transfer. The same course could be undertaken for Town Halls in Elgin, Forres, Findochty, Cullen and Buckie (Town House and Fisherman’s Hall).

Closure of public toilets throughout the region is also being proposed as well as a switch to a three-weekly residual waste management collection regime. There would be a reduction in street lighting repairs and maintenance with no single fault repairs.

As suggested school crossing patrols would be reduced with the lunchtime service removed entirely. The Community Warden service will also be reduced – while the review of parking charges is contained in the budget proposals. Other increased charges would include Harbour Fees, Sport And Leisure facilities.

On Council Tax the 10% discount for second homes would be removed as well as a review of discretionary rates relief.

Hard copies of the guide will be available at Access Points and libraries across Moray, as well as response forms for residents to feed back on the proposals.

Those who are on social media can also join Moray Council’s ‘Budget 2018’ Facebook group, and join in the discussion there.