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Warrington Borough Council Contemplates Closure of Stockton Heath Tip and Review of Library Services

In a move that has stirred up concerns among residents, Warrington Borough Council is considering the closure of the Stockton Heath community recycling center (CRC) as part of a series of substantial cost-saving measures. The town is also bracing for a 4.98% increase in council tax, further adding to the financial burden on its citizens.

The proposed budget for 2025-26 stands at a staggering £208.045 million, with the need to find £30.4 million in savings. Among the various austerity measures being discussed, the closure of the Stockton Heath CRC looms large, promising to save £60,000 in the upcoming fiscal year. This facility, situated at Sandy Lane, plays a crucial role in the town’s waste management infrastructure.

The Future of Stockton Heath CRC

The fate of the Stockton Heath CRC has been a topic of concern for many years, with previous attempts to shut it down being met with resistance. In December 2018, the council temporarily halted plans to close the facility to explore alternative solutions to reduce operational costs. However, the recent proposal to shut down the CRC has reignited tensions among local leaders and residents.

Liberal Democrat group leader Cllr Mark Browne expressed disappointment over the lack of consultation regarding the closure plans. He emphasized the need for collaborative decision-making in these challenging financial times, especially given the significant impact on residents in south Warrington. Councillors Judith Wheeler and Sharon Harris, representing the Stockton Heath ward, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the potential consequences of increased traffic and fly-tipping in the absence of a viable alternative.

Diverse Cuts on the Horizon

In addition to the potential closure of the Stockton Heath CRC, Warrington Borough Council has identified a range of savings proposals across various services. These include revising the grass cutting operational model, reducing agency spend related to absence management, decreasing street bin provision, and reviewing library services, among others. The proposed cuts underscore the council’s efforts to streamline operations and optimize financial resources amid mounting budgetary pressures.

Former council leader Cllr Ian Marks, serving as the Liberal Democrat finance spokesperson, raised concerns about the proposed £270,000 cut to library services. He emphasized the critical role of libraries as community hubs and expressed reservations about the impact on children’s access to essential resources. Cllr Graham Gowland echoed these sentiments, calling for a more inclusive approach to decision-making and emphasizing the importance of exploring alternative strategies to maintain essential services.

Looking Ahead

As Warrington Borough Council navigates the complex landscape of budget cuts and savings measures, the future of key community services hangs in the balance. The potential closure of the Stockton Heath CRC and the review of library services represent pivotal decisions that will shape the town’s social and environmental fabric for years to come. As residents and local leaders grapple with the implications of these proposals, the need for collaborative dialogue and innovative solutions has never been more pressing.

In conclusion, the fate of the Stockton Heath CRC and other vital services underscores the delicate balance between fiscal responsibility and community well-being. As Warrington Borough Council charts a course forward, the voices of residents and stakeholders must be heard to ensure that decisions reflect the diverse needs of the community. Only through thoughtful deliberation and inclusive decision-making can the council navigate these challenging times and emerge stronger, more resilient, and better equipped to serve the people of Warrington.