‘Crisis point’ in local government funding
Parties from across the spectrum called on the next government to change its funding model for local councils, claiming it is “not fit for purpose”. Councillor Robert Evans (Labour, Spelthorne) … Read More
Category: Finances
It’s not a fair cop? Cllr. Coley on police funding
Did you know that Surrey is the only police area in the country where local residents pay more towards policing than central government? The share of the burden is 55% … Read More
“Bonkers but essential” job to cut back jobs?
‘Bonkers but essential’ is how a new £75,000 job, running bankrupt Woking Borough Council’s decimated leisure and communities services is being described. Last month, the council cut more than £8million … Read More
Surrey County Council workers to strike?
Staff at Surrey County Council could walk out after a “record number” of people backed strike action – unless the authority makes a significantly improved pay offer, unions have said. … Read More
Local Government monopoly board at play?
Surrey County Council has added another building to its property portfolio after buying the Victoria Gate site from Woking Borough Council in a deal that will net the bankrupt authority … Read More
Boats on the canal “your time is up”?
Basingstoke Canal could stop leisure activities like boat hire and camping because they’re not financially viable. The 32-mile-long Basingstoke Canal was jointly acquired by Hampshire and Surrey County Councils in … Read More
Mixed reaction to Hunt’s budget in Surrey
In a significant development outlined in today’s Spring Budget, Surrey MP and Chancellor Jeremy Hunt confirmed the Surrey County Deal agreement, heralding a new era of devolution for Surrey County … Read More
Woking’s whopping bail out and tax rise
Woking Borough Council has raised its share of tax by 10 per cent. It comes as the bankrupt council was offered an “exceptional” £785 million Government bail out The major … Read More
Computer lets down County Council workers
Surrey County Council’s new £30 million payroll system has left staff “wiping tears of frustration and helplessness” over missed payments, it its claimed. It is claimed that the payroll system … Read More
Police probe abuse of public funds
Suspected fraud and alleged breaches of procedure in Guildford Borough Council’s housing maintenance team have snowballed, culminating in a police investigation. Last year, the council instigated a staff investigation following … Read More