Gateshead Council warns of big budget cuts to save £30 million

Gateshead Council must make 30 million pounds worth of savings over the next two years Credit: ITV News

The Cabinet of Gateshead Council have announced their recommendations to plug a 30 million pound funding gap and make budget cuts over the next two years.

The 30 million pound figure comes after a reduction in Government funding, and on top of 66 million pounds worth of cuts announced since the last general election.

The council have warned people that the proposals will have a noticeable impact upon those living in the area - with at least £233 less being able to be spend on each Gateshead resident than in 2010.

The proposals put forward today include:

  • Asking trusts, charities, community groups and volunteers to run five libraries and some other community facilities

  • Finding a new operating system for Bill Quay Community Farm. If this is not found it will close.

  • Increased charges - rather than raising council tax - including on pest control and bulky waste collections.

  • Reduced funding to cultural venues like The Sage Gateshead and BALTIC.

  • Car park charges to be frozen at the 2012/2013 levels.

The council have also announced that there will be less job losses than the 224 posts originally thought, but these are in addition to the 1125 already lost.

A full council meeting will be held on 28 February to discuss the budget recommendations put forward by the Cabinet.