A worried North Ayrshire councillor is warning children are in danger if shock budget proposals to axe school crossing patrols across the community go ahead.
The stark claim comes from Garnock Valley Independent Cllr Donald L Reid, who is also strongly opposed to early proposals in the budget consultation to close Skelmorlie, Fairlie, Dalry, Beith, Saltcoats and Dreghorn Libraries.
The School Crossing Patrol budget of £250,699 supports 48 posts providing a school crossing service at locations throughout North Ayrshire. This is a non-statutory service.
Cllr Reid said: “Obviously no decision is made until February, but I was keen to highlight the fact the officers have put that on the agenda for discussion is totally inappropriate. It shows you what a desperate position the council is in.
“I don’t want any child in North Ayrshire to be knocked down. I wouldn’t remove any of the crossings, the people are paid very little and go the extra mile.
“I don’t think any councillor would vote to remove school crossing patrollers as that would not be a wise thing to do.”
On the libraries, Cllr Reid said: “I don’t think any of the libraries should close. How do you get from Beith and Dalry to Kilbirnie, without a car? It’s hopeless. Libraries are not just for taking books out – they are community hubs.”
A North Ayrshire Council spokesperson said: “For next year, we expect to have a budget gap of at least £16million. This requires us to make significant savings. Unfortunately, that means there will be very difficult choices ahead.
“It’s important to stress that no decisions have yet been taken on any savings. We are now engaging with communities and would urge them to let us know their thoughts on the services we provide.
“Over the coming weeks, council officers will meet with community groups and stakeholders to gather their views on how any changes might impact them.
“In addition, residents and groups are encouraged to take part in online surveys on a range of areas – including school crossing patrollers – which can be found at www.north-ayrshire.gov.uk/Budget2025
“Paper copies of these surveys will be available in local libraries and KA Leisure facilities. Alternatively, residents can call the council’s contact centre on 01294 310000 and the surveys can be filled in over the phone. The contact centre is open Monday to Thursday from 9am to 4.45pm and Friday from 9am to 4.30pm.
“The feedback received will help inform councillors when they meet to set the budget in February 2025.”
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