Newbury Town Council leader warns of 'tough budget' in 2016

'We all need to play our part'

NEWBURY Town Council is facing a “tough” budget for 2016/17 following local cuts imposed by the Conservative Government, according to leader David Goff.

The warning comes as the town council begins a consultation process with the public to see if they wish to pay for services that West Berkshire Council is proposing to close from next April.

These include CCTV in Newbury, the public toilets at The Wharf and Pembroke Street and the visitor information centre in the town hall.

In his report to the full council on Monday (November 30), Mr Goff (Con, Clayhill), said: “Next year’s budget – it’s going to be a tough one.

“Not only do we need to consider the usual pressures on council finances, but we now also need to take note of the pressure that West Berkshire Council is under.

“They need to find significant savings as we do also.

“The Government are committed to straightening out the nation’s finances and we all need to play our part.”

The consultation process is now live on the council’s website www.newbury.gov.uk and is due to close tomorrow (Friday) with the budget set to be put to the full council in January.