THE opposition on Rochford District Council have questioned the decision to keep discussions over their budget private.

Ideas and proposals from council members are discussed at council away days, before the finance department put together a budget in conjunction with the councillor for finance, Simon Smith. John Mason, leader of the Green and Rochford District Resident alliance on the council, complained matters raised at the away days could then not be discussed with residents, to provide feedback.

He said: “Council meetings are the right place and right time for discussions on the budget, somewhere the public can comment on and hear the councillors’ views on issues.”

However, Jo McPherson, Rochford District Councillor for community, defended the process.

She said: “They are an open environment to put forward ideas and not feel stupid – I quite like that idea.”