THIS is a moment in Colchester’s history when the answer “none of the above” just won’t do.

Along with public bodies across the country, the borough’s council faces the threat of a massive 40 per cent budget cut when the cash-strapped Government announces its savings plans next month.

Doing nothing is not an option – the axe must fall and the only remaining question is where?

Which services could be scaled back? Where can savings be made? Which staff could the authority function without?

As local democracy faces one of its sternest tests, it is perhaps fitting the council is going back to the basics by asking the people of Colchester to help solve the problem.

In an online questionnaire launched today, bosses are inviting residents to list the three council services they believe are most important – and the three least important.

The results will be used when it comes to making the tough decisions on where to cut and how hard.

Some residents may take the view that deciding how to save cash is the job of the council’s staff – that is what we pay their salaries for.

In response, the council says it is already conducting fundamental reviews of all its services to find out where increased efficiency could allow for cuts.

But it says assistance from the public will also be of genuine help.

Pam Donnelly, executive director, said: “We are going to be making difficult decisions, informed by customer priorities, and it is vital we listen and respond to what our customers think.”

Public consultations are hardly uncommon for local councils, with most major policy decisions preceded by an appeal for residents’ views.

In many cases, consulting is a statutory Government requirement, and authorities frequently face criticism that they have asked what people think as a formality, only to plough ahead regardless.

Beverley Oxford, councillor responsible for customers, said, in this case, the council was doing more than going through the motions.

She added: “If we are asking people’s views, then we must listen to them. The Government wants us to have the Big Society and to empower residents.

“If they can give us ideas of how we can save money, then they will be playing a bigger role and also giving us important help.”

The questionnaire, which will be available at www.colchester. gov.uk until October 4, gives no opportunity for detailed comment.

But it will be followed by further consultation seeking practical ideas from residents.

Mrs Donnelly said: “We find our staff and customers have some of the best ideas for saving money and making improvements, as they are the ones who see the services in action at first-hand.”

Kevin Bentley, leader of the council’s opposition Conservative group, said he backed the scheme.

He added: “My immediate reaction is it is important to consult the public when dealing with their money.

“The most important thing is to save as much money as possible by cutting waste wherever we can.”

A paper copy of the questionnaire form is available by calling the council’s communications team on 01206 282262.