Highland Council’s ruling administration was at the centre of a row last night after plans emerged of a costly room reshuffle – to save members having to walk too far.
Critics have accused local authority leaders of squandering public money amid proposals to rearrange its headquarters in Inverness.
The council is considering moving all members to the same area of the building, which could mean staff from other departments would have to be relocated.
The Press and Journal understands the administration have called for the move, which the council says would be in line with “routine costs”, to allow them to be on the same floor as the debating chamber.
The council says it is unable to confirm how much the move will cost at this stage.
Last night, opposition councillors questioned the priorities of the independent administration at a time when the authority was under financial strain.
Councillor Maxine Smith, leader of the SNP opposition, said: “I have to say I was a little bit surprised by the move, I would have thought there would have been more important things to be doing within the administration.
“It would not have been my priority in a new administration at a time when you’re trying to make £21million cuts by next year, I’d certainly have other things on my mind.”
Councillor Donnie Kerr, Highland Alliance party, shared his opposition colleague’s views.
He said: “My initial thoughts are why would we be doing this if there’s a cost attached?
“I would think that at times of financial pressure like these, we should not be spending money unnecessarily – the cost-to-benefit ratio doesn’t seem great to me.
“It’s all a bit unnecessary, I don’t think anybody is so unfit that they can’t walk up and down the stairs.”
But last night, the administration defended the proposals.
Convenor Isobel McCallum said: “It’s a common-sense move of councillors to member facilities such as the chamber and the library.
“I don’t think it’s the case we are spending money unnecessarily, this is the routine movement of staff that happens in any large organisation.”
Highland Council said if the measure goes ahead it will increase efficiency and improve the relationship with officers and members of staff.
A spokeswoman said: “Officers have been asked to explore options for rearranging the accommodation currently provided so that member rooms can all be located together and in close proximity to the council chamber, committee rooms and other existing member accommodation and services.
“It is expected this would achieve a number of benefits including more efficient ways of working and improved communication between members and between members and staff. It replicates arrangements in many other councils where members’ accommodation is in one location. Some staff will be moving offices as a consequence. Costs will be in line with routine moves of staff in our buildings.”