West Somerset Council cuts of £414k threaten jobs

Jobs could be at risk at West Somerset Council as the authority looks to make savings of £414,000.

The council wants to make the savings because cuts in government grants could "significantly weaken the council's financial position".

The proposals could see parking charges introduced in Blue Anchor and increases in fees at other council car parks.

The council's cabinet will discuss the proposals on 1 December and a consultation runs until 11 January.

Management review

Council leader Tim Taylor said: "The government's comprehensive spending review has resulted in councils being left in no doubt that they have to make unprecedented savings in a very short period of time, as well as in the longer term."

The council report also detailed other potential savings, including a review of senior management which would save £27,500.

An "internal review of service provision" could also yield savings of more than £100,000.

The authority is also considering a partial winter closure of some public toilets in Minehead, Dunster and Porlock.

Arts funding contributed by the council amounting to £7,500 could also be cut.