PROPOSALS to axe even more councillors in Blackburn with Darwen have been put forward by veteran Tory Colin Rigby.

The ruling Labour group are looking at cutting the 64 councillors across 23 three member wards to just 51 across 17 saving more than £100,000-a-year. Conservative group leader, Cllr John Slater’s initial proposal was for 54 councillors across 18 wards.

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Now his deputy and next year’s Mayor, Cllr Rigby, has put forward his own plan to cut the number of councillors to 45 or even 44, increasing the saving to close on £200,000 annually.

A review of the number of councillors will begin in November with changes taking effect at the next local elections in spring 2018. Pendle council is considering slashing the number of councillors by a third from 49 to 15 under proposals by the ruling Labour/Liberal Democrat administration.

Tory group leader, Cllr Joe Cooney, said this does not go far enough.

Cllr Rigby, who has represented North Turton with Tockholes for 27 years, said: “I think the best option would be 45 for 15 wards elected in thirds as now or 44 councillors for 22 wards elected every other year although that would change the electoral cycle.”

His plan will be debated by the Conservative group before the full Blackburn with Darwen Council Forum on October 6.

Labour deputy leader, Cllr Phil Riley, said: “Our proposal for 51 councillors has been approved by the group. Other proposals will be fully debated.”

The Local Government Boundary Commission will consider and consult on the the proposals before a final ward map is published next September.

Blackburn with Darwen Liberal Democrat leader, Cllr David Foster, believes the correct number of councillors for the borough is in ‘the low 50s’.