South Ayrshire Council face Ombudsman probe

Jul 24 2009

SOUTH Ayrshire Council is to be investigated over its failure to consult the public on the closure of public facilities.

The decision follows several complaints to the Scottish Public Service Ombudsman (SPSO).

The organisation confirmed on Wednesday morning that they will look at the council’s consultation procedures following the controversial decisions, which saw thousands take to the street in protest earlier this year.

MP Brian Donohoe revealed that the local government watchdog will also decide if there is evidence of maladministration.

The MP for Central Ayrshire is among those who complained to the Ombudsman about the closure of centres and facilities across South Ayrshire, including the activity centre in Tarbolton.

He said: “It’s about time this was investigated fully.

“I have been inundated with people complaining about centres and services being shut down over the last six months.

“Clearly the council has been trying to balance its budget, but in my view, many of the closures are short sighted and could actually end up costing us all more.

“Take the Tarbolton centre as an example. I’ve been warning for a long time that if the centre is allowed to close there will be an enormous increase in vandalism and other crime, which could ultimately cost far more than the £50,000 that will be saved through closing it.”

Mr Donohoe added: “It’s an absolute disgrace and even more disgraceful because the council has steam-rollered through this and other decisions with barely a nod to the people they represent who gain so much from these kind of services.”

SPSO was set up in 2002 to investigate complaints about public service bodies.

It aims to provide justice for the individual and make recommendations to the authority concerned to improve the delivery of their service. It cannot, however, overturn decisions.

Council leader Hugh Hunter insists that he will co-operate fully with the investigation.

He said: “We welcome all measures which will assist South Ayrshire Council improve its consultation mechanisms.

“We made clear in the council’s recently approved Improvement Agenda the high priority that we attach to communication and community engagement.

“We are sure that the work of the Ombudsman in reviewing specific decisions will assist us in making improvements in the way that we communicate and engage with local communities.

“We look forward to working closely in a positive and constructive manner with the Ombudsman.”