Leaked Falkirk Council report on cuts including four-day school week causes 'unnecessary concern and anxiety'

dailyrecord.co.uk:

A leaked council paper outlining potential cuts to services has caused “completely unnecessary concern and anxiety”, the SNP leader of Falkirk Council leader has said.

The report revealed councillors could be asked to consider drastic cuts – including shortening the school week and closing Falkirk town hall – when they come to set this year’s budget.And the leader of the Labour group said the depth and severity of the options being considered shows that “years of underfunding” has put the council at breaking point.In a bid to close a budget gap of £29 million, options drawn up by officials also include the closure of local libraries and shutting council-owned sports facilities.The council leader said whoever leaked the information should be ‘ashamed’, and insisted the options could be changed or sent for further review – or scrapped.Cllr Meiklejohn said: “I am dismayed that this internal report has been leaked and is creating completely unnecessary concern and anxiety among our communities and employees in the services mentioned.“Whoever has done this is responsible for this anxiety and should be ashamed of themselves.”She added: “It is the case that every year options come forward and show how the budget gap could be potentially bridged.Falkirk Live brings you the latest headlines from Falkirk and beyond.But did you know all the ways you can stay informed with us?We share live news and exclusive scoops every day so make sure you're following us so we can keep you informed on all things Falkirk!“Some of them will change and some will not proceed further as they may be unworkable or unacceptable.“Some may also require further review – however, absolutely no final decisions are taken prior to the Council meeting on March