Spa councillors want talks about new plans

As revealed in the News, ELDC is keen to hand on some services to town and parish councils in a bid to save £6m over the next four years.

Council leader Craig Leyland, who represents Woodhall Spa, has warned services could be cut back - or even axed - if towns and parishes don’t step forward.

Parish councillors in Woodhall Spa have indicated they are interested in the idea, including taking charge of Royal Square and performing a more prominent role in planning matters.

However, they are concerned extra duties will involve a massive increase in the parish share of council tax bills - to help raise revenue.

Speaking at a recent meeting, Coun Graham Keegan again raised the possibility of the parish council utilising revenue from car parks to offset any hike in the village precept.

However, Coun Keegan accepted warnings from councillors Adrian Wilson and Shirley Williams about the expense of taking charge of car parks.

Coun Williams said: “We have to balance any income with the cost of actually maintaining car parks. And, who is going to pay for the wardens to patrol them and impose any penalties. We need to be very careful.”

Councillors are also concerned about the cost of taking on footpath lights.

Coun Leyland promised talks would take place about any devolved powers and praised the parish council for a ‘pro-active response’.