Council Tackles £36m Funding Gap

Bedford Borough Council is facing a £36m funding gap over the next 4 years. This is caused by a combination of reducing government funding and greater needs, such as more older people needing support.

Mayor Dave Hodgson said "This is an unprecedented level of savings to make. We have come up with a range of proposals that we want to discuss with residents. Please let us know what you think. We are proposing substantial savings in back office costs and efficiencies. Unlike other councils we are NOT proposing any closure of libraries or children's centres. However, given the scale of the challenge it has not been possible to avoid some changes to services."

You can complete a sort survey www.mayordave.org.uk or find out more and respond to the council on the full range of proposals at www.bedford.gov.uk/budget2012 . Deadline for responses is 21 November.