Cash strapped council splashes out £34k on canteen

Powys County Council has been accused of “showing insensitivity” after splashing out £34,000 on its own canteen at County Hall.

It comes at a time when Welshpool is set to lose its library and the announcement that the regional authority will shed at least 50 jobs to help slice £14 million of its annual budget.

The work was revealed by Jackie Owen, of Plaid Cymru Llanidloes branch, who had the information as a result of a Freedom of Information request.

However, Powys County Council defended the spend by saying it was part of a plan to make their operations more economical.

But Jackie said: “At a time of austerity for all, of cuts after cuts by Powys Council, of threats of further substantial increases in rates for Powys residents, to understand that they have spent over £34k on the canteen at County Hall, £11k of that on tables and chairs whilst the ones there were fine, is putting salt in the wound, shows insensitivity and sends the wrong message out.

“It is a sad irony that Powys residents are under pressure to put food on the table, and paying ever increasing council tax, yet Powys Council can seem to afford new tables at huge expense. It is well known that this is only one room and that there’s work happening throughout the building which must beg the question what the total cost is and how it can be justified at this time?”

In response, Cllr Phyl Davies, Powys Cabinet Member for Property, explained: “To make better use of the space in County Hall, we have provided an additional agile work space in the restaurant. This has allowed staff to agile work and hold informal meetings before and after lunchtime.

“As part of this, we have purchased new furniture which would meet our agile working requirements but also allow diners to eat in comfort. The old furniture was either re-used by the council or provided to schools and community organisations.

“General improvements works were also carried out in the canteen which saw the lighting and ceiling replaced. The improvements will reduce energy consumption and also reduce ongoing maintenance costs.”