RESIDENTS are being asked to have their say on where Tendring Council should make cuts next year.

Town Hall bosses have been told their Government grant is set to be slashed by £1.6million.

The council’s budget had already been cut to £16million, down £7million since government austerity measures started in 2010.

Now people are being asked to give Tendring Council bosses their ideas on priorities for where cash should go and where cuts should be made.

Finance boss Alan Goggin warned that finance would remain a “considerable challenge” for the council.

“Initial estimates mean that we are looking at possible further savings of up to £5.5million in the future,” he said.

“This is because we face ongoing reductions in Government funding.”

The council is asking residents to help shape the annual budget by taking part in its “You Choose” online budget planner.

It allows residents to adjust council spending ‘virtually’ so they can immediately see what impact it would have on the budget and services.

This year the model starts with a £2million deficit, which those taking part have to reduce to zero.

A summary of the results will be presented to the council’s cabinet before it sets next year’s budget.

“It is not easy to balance the books while still providing all the various services we expect and enjoy,” added Mr Goggin.

To have your say on where cuts should be made, go to tendringdc.gov.uk/consultation and click on ‘You Choose’.