Political parties from across Moray have united to make the case for extra cash for the region from the Scottish Government.
Representatives from the SNP, Conservatives, Labour and independent members of the council met Finance Secretary Derek Mackay yesterday in Edinburgh.
Last night the delegation explained they were encouraged by the talks but warned there was a long way to go in the process to get a better deal for the area.
Arguments centred on devising a new funding formula to calculate the amount of cash awarded to region – Moray is currently only ahead of Aberdeen and Edinburgh in the money it gets per head of population – as well as the 3% cap on raising council tax on pressures providing infrastructure for military bases.
Moray MSP Richard Lochhead stressed it was important that representatives were not seen to merely hold out a “begging bowl”.
He said: “It needs to be a rational argument. However, saying that, Moray is in a distinct situation given its rural characteristics.
“For instance there are 53 schools spread across more than 850 square miles and there are 900 miles of roads to maintain – you can well understand the pressures.
“If we want a bigger slice of the cake then we have to make these arguments early. It’s refreshing to see a Team Moray approach being taken by all political parties.”
Moray Council is currently forecast to go bankrupt within the next two years as it continues to plunder reserve funds to maintain services.
More than £6million of cuts were made last month amid warnings of worse to come next year.
Tim Eagle, leader of Moray Council’s Conservative group, believes the talks were important to “open a door” to future dialogue with the Scottish Government.
He said: “It was positive and a wonderful example of cross-party action. We discussed some specific examples that can hopefully be addressed with the growth deal. They were helpful and willing to listen.”
Labour councillor John Divers, leader of the council’s Moray Alliance Group, added: “It’s gone as well as can be expected. There’s a line to be followed with all government dealings and it’s important to get them on side.”
