Latest cuts announced

‘CHALLENGING’ Government cuts and land development plans were on the agenda at Bassetlaw Council’s December meeting.

Council leader Simon Greaves outlined how the latest Local Government Finance Settlement figures would see a £700,000 reduction in funding in Bassetlaw over the next two years.

Coun Greaves spoke of several councils which had been put on ‘life support’ following the proposed cuts and said the major concern for Bassetlaw is that the settlement figures continue to decrease year on year.

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“We will meet the challenges head on. It is essential that we work even closer with our neighbours in order to attract growth, jobs and inward investment into the district,” he said.

“Over time I think it is essential that we continue to look to new ways of working - standing still is not an achievement.”

Coun Greaves also faced tough questioning from his Tory opponents Coun Chris Wanless and Coun Keith Isard over his confidence in council officers and over halted plans for new housing and commercial developments in Bassetlaw.

Said Coun Greaves: “We have a fantastic team who work to their very best, as you will see from the awards given out this evening. What more could you ask for?”

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“I have asked for more background information on the site allocations which the council is working on at present - we will then look at these and progress them accordingly.”

But Coun Greaves refused to be drawn on further questions about his leadership style.

Coun Wanless asked why he ‘continually undermined’ officers and the cabinet with his ‘policy of micro-mangaging’.

And Coun Isard asked for assurances that site allocation matters would not be discussed with local MPs John Mann and Patrick Mercer or their agents and family.

Said Coun Greaves: “That is not a question, Coun Wanless, and I will put a full stop to that.”

“And I think Coun Isard is attempting to stir up trouble.”