MUCH has been written lately regarding the financial competence of the council. The £400k loan to Digital City for a wi-fi scheme which never stood a chance of coming to fruition, the decision to simply write off a £600k debt owed by the Highworth Recreation Centre in order to avoid distress to the Trustees and now the continuing debacle surrounding the Mechanics’ Institute.

In a report to be presented to the scrutiny committee, council officers have been forced to set out the real costs associated with the emergency and ongoing repair works to the building. While it was always thought the urgent works would incur a six figure cost, I feel sure that many people will be shocked to discover that the council now anticipates that the bill will be £850k. As Mr Singh clearly cannot pay the £393k it logically follows that he will not be able to pay the additional £850k which means quite simply that the Swindon council tax payer will be left with a bill for £1.2 million.

I feel sure that Coun Bluh and his colleagues will attempt to defend their actions by citing the dangers associated with leaving the building in what was described as a dreadful state. However, what appears apparent is that Swindon Council will end up with a potential unpaid debt of £1.2 million.

DES MORGAN

Caraway Drive

Swindon