Jobs threat in council shake up

Hundreds of jobs are at risk at a county council planning savings of up to £100m over the next four years.

Northamptonshire County Council also plans a major shake up of its administration with some services given to other councils or voluntary groups.

Council leader Jim Harker described the cost savings as the "biggest ever challenge" for the local authority.

A services review will focus on tasks required by law, but other work is due to disappear or be devolved.

Some services will be given to parish and town councils or to local groups.

Over the past four years the county council has shed about 2,000 jobs.

'Iconic' headquarters

Mr Harker confirmed to the BBC that, over the next four years, hundreds more jobs are expected to be lost, although he would not name a figure or say which departments would be affected.

However details of where the axe might fall are expected next week when budget proposals are published.

The council also wants to team up with other local authorities and the NHS to share services, buildings or staff.

Many buildings will be sold off and the council might even move out of County Hall and the annex building John Dryden House in the Lakes area.

A new "iconic" headquarters would be built in Northampton, Mr Harker said.

After Christmas a public consultation - termed the "Big Debate" is due to be launched by the council.

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