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A row on political spending, democracy, and perceived waste of public money

The proposal to create a new parish council in Cradley was championed by the Liberal Democrat group on Dudley Council. The Lib Dems included a demand for a feasibility study into the idea as part of the political negotiations to secure their votes for the ruling Conservative group’s annual budget.

The deal between the two parties set aside a substantial sum, initially up to £75,000 , to cover the costs of the required study and resident consultation. Opponents quickly criticized this agreement as an instance of political manoeuvring in a council with no overall control.

Although a large budget was allocated, the final cost for the study and resulting consultation ultimately amounted to £8,000 o

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