Now that we are firmly into the New Year we are no doubt set to see plenty of pages and print dedicated to covering Telford & Wrekin Council’s budget process.
Budget setting is the one of the hardest tasks that councillors and officers, across the country have to carry out each year. The task of finding savings whilst still delivering core services that people rely on day in day out is unenviable. That said those that serve as councillors know before standing for election of the difficulties that the role entails.
After mortgages or rent, council tax is likely to be one of the largest bills facing households and quite rightly people expect to see quality services delivered. Many services in Telford are delivered to a high standard and Telford & Wrekin Council officers have much to be proud of.
Many people have been in touch to highlight their concerns around proposed library closures stating their fears and in some cases anger around potential closures.
Libraries are a much valued service for so many different reasons. Books aside, libraries offer computer access and a social function that many people treasure. Libraries are a hub of information for everyone. We are very lucky in Telford to have the fantastic library facilities in Southwater, but local libraries matter too in giving a community a heart and providing us all with a shared space that belongs to us all.
My hope is that the Council's proposals are still at an early, exploratory stage and that innovative solutions can be found, as is the Telford way. Partnership working with parish councils and voluntary groups can be the way forward. In neighbouring Shropshire, the Council has sought to do just this, and a number of town councils are set to start running libraries. I don't believe Telford & Wrekin Council will shut libraries when other solutions exist.
Whilst we elect local representatives to make tough decisions, we all have a democratic right and a responsibility to speak up and say how we want our money spent. If you haven’t taken part in the Council’s budget consultation yet, I urge you to go online or visit one of the roadshows to let them know how you feel. As your MP I will be writing to the Council to constructively raise some of these important issues. If you would like to let me know what services matter most to you, please get in touch email:[email protected]