Major concerns have been raised about plans to revamp the “dated” Western Isles Council chamber at a time when budgets are under pressure.
It is feared that the work on the premises, which have not been refurbished in 42 years, could turn out to be costly, with plans including tweed coverings.
Councillor Gordon Murray of the SNP has written to Council Leader Roddie Mackay asking him to reconsider.
Mr Murray wrote: “I have major concerns over the proposals for refurbishing the chamber and the members’ dining area.
“There is little doubt that the IT and Communications require to be renewed to aid the function the chamber needs to fulfil.
“However, the furniture and environment, despite being dated, is not a spending priority especially if the costs are potentially over £100,000.
“At a time when services are facing uncertainty and the council is failing to achieve service redesign savings, the SNP group feel that the monies to be used for the refurbishment should be used to protect services.
“I would urge you to consider this matter and bring this matter to the full council so that members can decide if they agree with the SNP Group’s position or not.”
Speaking to The Press and Journal, Mr Murray said: “We have been asking for costings but we have not had an answer yet.
“The worry is that they are going to spend a lot of money on refurbishment at a time when services are going through cuts.
“I understand that the IT equipment needs to be upgraded. But I have seen plans for the refurbishment where it looks like the Scottish Parliament, complete with tweed.
“It has not been refurbished for 42 years so why do it now?”
A spokesman for Western Isles Council said: “The chamber and surrounding member work spaces are obviously in need of refurbishment, particularly in terms of IT and communications equipment which would be the bulk of the cost.
“The council hosts many events in the chamber and adjacent meeting rooms and work areas and it is only right there is an appropriate, modern working environment.
“The council has already agreed to do this work which will involve an upgrade to the IT and Communications in not only the chamber and associated meeting rooms in Stornoway, but also Harris, Balivanich and Barra.”
