Anger over councillor’s ‘luxury lounge’ claims
Plans to splash the cash sparks war of words
A row has broken out over plans to spend tens of thousands of pounds re-jigging the layout of councillors’ offices.
The minority SNP administration has agreed plans to splash out on new accommodation to reflect the new make-up of the council, particularly the need to house the bigger Conservative group.
The opposition Labour group claims the plans include a “luxury” members’ lounge and will cause major disruption to councillors and clerical staff.
Labour group leader, Councillor Eddie Devine, who looked at the plans for the area, said: “Previous changes to councillors’ accommodation in order to create a bigger customer service area, arising from an increase in customer welfare referrals as a result of Tory and SNP austerity cuts, were misleadingly portrayed by the then SNP opposition as “luxury accommodation” for councillors.
“It is completely hypocritical for the SNP to now support work that is absolutely unnecessary and is all about the comfort of councillors, rather than the needs of the public.
“The work over the next six weeks will cause major disruption.
“The present o f f i c e arrangements have worked satisfactorily over the last two months.
“This is a waste of money and at a time when many people are living hand to mouth.
“This move, particularly the provision of a luxury lounge, will not be appreciated by the wider public. It was expected to cost around £50,000.”
Council leader Iain Nicolson denied the cost was anywhere near £50,000, claiming it was £32,950, with the work taking place during council recess to minimise disruption.
He explained: “This is not an SNP-led initiative, indeed it is purely operational and stems from the fact the offices were designed in conjunction with Labour to accommodate only two large political groups and, with Labour’s collapse at the polls in May, we now have three.
“The description by Councillor Devine of a luxury lounge being created is ridiculous, given that it is simply a small kitchen area with some tables and chairs where councillors from all parties can mingle and work together when needed.
“The Labour Party in Renfrewshire may want to continue to hide in their silo, but the people of Renfrewshire, in giving no party a majority of seats in May, have made it quite clear they expect us to work together to build a better Renfrewshire.”