Councillors and the public were surprised to hear the announcement from the Mayor Rees last week that "all non-essential spending" in the Council has been stopped. We are told it will remain "until the council has firm plans for a balanced budget this year and next, along with a more developed five-year plan" We are told that the move means that all maintenance of buildings, roads and parks will stop unless there is a risk to people's health or safety. This includes budgets controlled by Neighbourhood Partnerships, including well-being grants, highways schemes, clean and green projects, or any other neighbourhood budget spend.’ Cllr Mark Wright for Cabot eNews [email protected] You can still have your say on the council’s Corporate Strategy until Thursday 5th January online her