Council pledges 'radical' plans

The council says the move will help cut duplication of services

A north London council has pledged to adopt a "no frills" approach which could require residents to pay extra for certain services.

Barnet Council says the move will save up to £25m a year.

Residents will be consulted to decide "what level of services it is appropriate or indeed affordable for the council to provide".

Tory Council leader Mike Freer said the day of "one size fits all" for services had gone and councils had to adjust.

The opposition Labour group said the move could result in unequal services.

The Conservative council says it will outsource work, cut duplication and "customise" services for residents in a "relentless drive for efficiency".

I believe wholeheartedly in ensuring high quality services are available to all, but that the day of one size fits all has gone

Barnet Council leader Mike Freer

It suggests forming a central body to oversee its property portfolio of more than £500m, which includes schools, offices and residential blocks.

The council also hopes to "raise performance" through working with the private sector, in a bid to streamline operations to cut duplication.

Services such as catering, transport, housing, street cleaning and parking are being considered under this proposal.

Council leader Mike Freer said public services in the borough "need to reflect the changes in customer care that have become standard across the private sector".

"Those residents who come into contact with the council infrequently - on issues like parking permits or planning - need to find our services simpler and easier to use," he said.

'Barest minimum'

He added: "Residents who have ongoing support from the council need to find it easier to develop services that respond to their individual needs. "

Mr Freer added: "I believe wholeheartedly in ensuring high quality services are available to all, but that the day of one size fits all has gone."

When the plan was initially suggested in August, the council's Labour group leader Dr Alison Moore said it sent the message that the council was there "to do the barest minimum at the lowest cost and if you want anything else, you will have to pay extra".

"That will not promote an equitable society or open up opportunity more widely," Dr Moore said.

The council's cabinet voted unanimously for the plan on Wednesday.