UPROAR is mounting over Redditch Council's plans to axe services, jobs and facilities in a frantic bid to save £1.158 million.

The Advertiser has been flooded with letters and phone calls from residents angry about the proposed cutbacks, which will be decided at meeting of the full council on January 30.

Facilities and services in the firing line include Forge Mill Museum, Arrow Valley Countryside Centre, One-Stop Shops and Redditch Market.

An increase in council tax of two per cent above inflation is also an option being looked at.

And there could be job cuts too, with recently appointed neighbourhood wardens facing the chop along with One-Stop Shop cashiers, pest control officers and a top-level council director.

The council's list of possible savings total almost £700,000 more than the necessary sum - therefore not all the cuts will be made.

Redditch Friends of the Earth's Alistair Waugh was just one of the concerned residents who contacted the Advertiser, anxious about plans to close the countryside centre.

"This loss would be a huge blow to the town's green credentials," he said.

"The countryside centre is somewhere that we can all learn from - it's green and fun for kids.

''It's at the heart of where Redditch should be in the 21st century."

Meanwhile, Redditch Arts Council treasurer Sally Whytehead was concerned the cuts would destroy the town's arts scene.

"I think these cuts could have a devastating effect on arts and culture in the town. We are very concerned," she said.

Residents are urged to write to Council Leader Phil Mould at Redditch Town Hall with their views before the end of the consultation period with staff and members on January 26.

What do you think about the council's plans? Write to the editor at Redditch Advertiser, Grosvenor House, Prospect Hill, Redditch B97 4DL or e-mail:

RedditchEditorial@midlands.newsquest.co.uk