PUBLIC meetings to discuss controversial cuts proposals will be held this week.

Darlington Borough Council announced two assemblies for residents to share their opinions on the current plans to save £12.5m before the proposals are finalised in June.

Leader of Darlington Borough Council, Bill Dixon, will host the meetings alongside cabinet members who will present the main budget proposals.

He said: “The cuts we have to make will affect most, if not all, of our residents in some way – some more than others.

“It makes sense then to find out exactly what is going on from those who have to make these difficult decisions – the councillors.

“We are still consulting on these proposals and are open to suggestions as to how we can make the savings required.

“These are difficult and testing times and the key here is to be as open and transparent in this process as we possibly can and let people know how we have formed these proposals.

“It is also a great opportunity for us to listen and take on board these people’s concerns and ideas going forward.

Members of the public can ask questions during the meetings at 2pm and 6pm, on Wednesday, March 16, in the Dolphin Centre’s central hall and a video of the second meeting will be uploaded at darlington.gov.uk/budget