Redcar and Cleveland Council cuts threaten 300 posts

Up to 300 jobs are predicted to go at Redcar and Cleveland Council as the authority tries to save more than £25m over the next four years.

The council, which is Labour led with support from Independents, said it aimed to avoid compulsory redundancies.

Savings already identified include reducing the number of council buildings and selling off some assets.

Council leader George Dunning said the government's spending cuts posed an "unprecedented budget challenge."

In total the authority says it must shave £25.5m from its budget over the next four years - with £15.5m to be found in the coming financial year.

Mr Dunning said: "The government's spending cuts have left us facing an unprecedented budget challenge and this has led to some extremely difficult decisions, particularly when it comes to proposed redundancies among our workforce.

"We will do our very best to mitigate any proposals on job losses or any proposed redundancies."

Norman Pickthall, the council's cabinet member for corporate resources, added: "In tackling these serious financial issues, we remain committed to providing quality front line services and protecting the vulnerable in our communities.

"We will continue to do the very best we can to serve the communities of Redcar and Cleveland in these tough economic times."