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News

Poole Demands to Meet John Prescott

Councillors in Poole are calling on Deputy Prime Minister John Prescott to meet them after details of the Government funding Poole residents will receive towards services next year were revealed.

In a letter to Mr Prescott, the Leader of the Council, Cllr Brian Leverett outlined the seriousness of the position facing the town.

Cllr Leverett, said; "Poole will receive a dismal amount of funding from the Government for services next year. After passing on the money needed by our schools, we have been left with no extra funding for services - not even the rate of inflation. This means that for refuse collection, Social Services or community safety, Council Taxpayers are being asked to bear the full burden of any increases in cost. We are one of four Councils to be in this unenviable position as well as being the second lowest funded unitary Council per head of population in the country, which is unacceptable."

He added: "Unless the Government gives us extra funding, more in line with other Councils, or we can find even more savings in addition to the many efficiencies we have introduced, I am concerned that the Council Tax rise in Poole could be higher than the 5% that the Government is calling for. We have demonstrated a good track record in providing quality services but we seem to be being penalised for innovation and providing value. This funding situation cannot continue and we need an urgent meeting with the Deputy Prime Minister in order to address it."

Rachael Mills, Media Relations Manager, Communications and Tourism Services, Borough of Poole, tel 01202 633295