RESIDENTS of Clydebank are set to get the chance to have an even bigger say on how council money is spent.

As part of a new, priority-based budget consultation, West Dunbartonshire Council will consult with residents six months in advance of the budget.

Residents will also be asked to rank services in order of importance, including schools, roads, libraries and leisure centres.

The consultation will be collated and referred back to councillors, who will then use the information to decide the 2020/21 budget.

The council will open the consultation on Monday, August 19, and close on Friday, September 27, which will include focus group events with members of the community.

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Corporate services committee convener, Ian Dickson, said: “Our residents are at the heart of what we do so it is essential that they have every opportunity to have their say and shape the early stages of the budget setting process.

“Priority-based engagement gives our residents a stronger voice, and also gives officers valuable early insight into what our communities see as most important before savings are suggested.

“This information will help focus savings being considered in areas highlighted by citizens as less important to them.

“Balancing the budget is always a difficult process but when we come together next year to consider the options, they will be based on citizen engagement which will allow us to address the needs and priorities of our communities.

“This feedback will inform service design, planning and savings options for a number of years – not just one – so I would encourage all residents to participate in this important consultation when it opens in August.”

A report of the findings of the consultation will go to councillors in November, before the budget is set in February.