THE future is far from bright at Scottish Borders Council, according to a new report.

As members of the local authority are asked to rubber-stamp spending proposals next Thursday, they will also be expected to approve a new five-year strategy to trim the workforce and start sharing offices with other organisations.

The Fit for 24 programme aims to identify around £17 million of savings by co-locating and job-sharing with other authorities and public bodies, streamlining back-office staff and carrying out major cost-cutting reviews in all departments.

A spokesman told us: "Over the five year Fit for 2024 programme we will see a reduction of posts in some areas in conjunction with increases in other areas such as Early Years provision.

"Staff will be kept updated and involved in the programme going forward, and in particular the effect of the review on staff will be fully discussed. Any potential reductions will be managed through HR processes including natural turnover, deployment and redeployment.

According to bosses at Newtown St Boswells the five-year strategy will make SBC more adaptable, efficient and effective.

Chief executive Tracey Logan explained: “Despite excellent financial management over many years and internal changes to improve the organisation and our services, it is fair to say that due to many external pressures the outlook for Scottish Borders Council for the next five years remains extremely challenging.

“It is therefore an appropriate time for us to look at a programme of actions that are bigger, bolder and braver than ever before.”

The planned programme of change will also include making best use of council properties, and investment in digital solutions. The Fit for 2024 programme is to be considered at Thursday’s council meeting.