Colchester Council's staff canteen, given just one year to turn around its losses and post a profit, is on course for a £30,000 deficit.

The canteen's future was thrown into doubt last year when the cabinet recommended its closure, but the plan was criticised by councillors from all parties and public sector workers' union Unison.

It was debated by the council's overview and scrutiny panel in December and the canteen was given a one-year reprieve to turn around its losses and be on an even footing by the end of the 2003/04 financial year.

But last night's meeting of the panel heard the canteen was predicted to record a loss of £30,000, based on trading in May and June. However, July has seen an increase in sales and the predicted deficit could be revised.

Published Wednesday, August 6, 2003

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