Let's Talk off to a good start (From Thurrock Gazette)

Let's Talk off to a good start

7:00am Saturday 29th December 2012 in News

RESIDENTS in Thurrock have continued to pitch money saving ideas to Thurrock Council.

The council’s budget consultation Let’s Talk was launched in 2010 and proved a big hit with residents.

The council hasn’t been promoting the tool, available on its website, as much this time, but suggestions are being made.

Council leader John Kent said: “We haven’t given the Thurrock’s Budget – Let’s Talk the same major push this time around, but people are visiting the site.

“We have three ideas from the public – one of them an income generating proposal – which are certainly worth considering.”

The Let’s Talk pages on the council’s website show its own savings proposals and others which the public put forward. They also offer people the chance to vote on each suggestion, whether they “like” or “dislike” each one.

Cllr Kent added: “Every council in the country is looking to make savings and we’re no different.

“We are looking at reduced grants from the Government over the next few years and it is important we consider every option that cuts costs – but we must also try to ensure those savings impact on vulnerable people as little as possible.

“I urge everyone to log on to the site and vote – and if you have an idea which might help us save money, let us know.”

Visit www.thurrock.gov.uk