Council's fears over changes to funding

CONSERVATIVE councillors in Northumberland have warned rumoured changes to the way funding for local authorities is calculated would be a "kick in the teeth" for the council.

- JAMES ROBINSON Local Democracy Reporter

It comes after The Times reported that less consideration is expected to be given to the remoteness of councils when it comes to getting Government cash.

The remoteness element of the calculation takes into account the extra cost of delivering services in large rural and remote areas such as Northumberland, but could be removed as part of the Government's ongoing Fair Funding review. The final funding review is due to be published at the end of the month.

Speaking at a meeting of the county council, cabinet member for finance Coun Nick Oliver urged Northumberland Labour MPs Joe Morris and David Smith to object to any proposed change.

The pair represent Hexham and North Northumberland respectively - two of the largest and most rural constituencies in the country.