The recent Stepping Hill area committee meeting saw more details from the new Labour administration on proposals for next year’s budget.  Cuts are never popular but some of the things they are considering seem likely to be very unpopular including some we have already covered:

• A rise in Council Tax of 3.99%
• A move to 3 weekly refuse collection with millions spent on slightly bigger bins
• A huge increase in the cost of the Lib Dem low emission car parking permit from £10 to £360

Cllr Jon Twigge says ”so far it looks like the new administration are struggling to come to grips with the difficult decisions they need to make on budget cuts with the proposals they are putting forward looking set to be very unpopular.  Just today I spoke to one of the refuse collection staff about the plan for the bins who said it just won’t work – many people already struggle and it will result in far more fly tipping and vermin.”

With a lot more money to find we will keep you updated as more details emerge.

If you want to help the Labour executive out they are asking for feedback on these ideas and advice on whether they shut cut subsidies on Council Tax for unoccupied properties: – Have Your Say

On a more positive note Torkington Allotment Association were given a grant toward the cost of drainage improvements from the Area Flexibility Fund – each Ward in Stockport receives £3000 a year for capital improvements or startup funding for new community groups which can make all the difference to help them get off the ground.  If you want to apply for a good local cause there are more details on the Council website.