The leader of the opposition on Castle Point Council today told how he thinks £60,000 on a consultation team to sell the borough's ailing leisure services was a waste of money.
Canvey central councillor Dave Blackwell - Labour opposition chief - says he has serious reservations about the course of action the Tory-led council is now embarking on.
Under review - Waterside Sports Centre Picture: TERENCE BUNCH
He said: "I don't like the idea of spending £60,000 for people to come in and look at the facilities and then market them and sell them.
"I'm sure much of this is something qualified officers could be doing. Officers are employed to look at better ways to run our facilities so what's the need for the consultation group?"
The leisure services have been in the spotlight since a best value review indicated key facilities like Waterside Sports Centre, in Somnes Avenue, Canvey, and Runnymede swimming pool, in Kiln Road, Thundersley, were deteriorating.
Chairman of highways and leisure, Tory councillor Ray Howard, said the wheels were in motion to find the right team for the job.
He said: "We have been looking at a number of firms of consultants and the fact is we are currently selecting which firm will work with us on the future of these complexes."
Published Wednesday, August 6, 2003
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