A YEAR-end spending spree has only been possible by delays in some major council projects, and better planning could have meant cash cuts could be avoided, a councillor has claimed.

Labour’s Cllr Neil Barnes has criticised the Lib-Dems and Conservatives in charge at City of York Council after they announced £1.1 million unspent in the 2017/18 budgets. The money is going on projects from pothole repairs to children’s speech therapy. Cllr Barnes said he does not take issue with the spending but wants to know what could have happened with better budget planning.

“Delays in the council’s capital programme have given the Tory-Lib Dem coalition a get-out-of-jail-free card that they are using on a bonanza of popular spending.

“The 2017/18 budget had £6 million of cuts planned, hitting some of the most vulnerable in York. Will the Tories and Lib Dems apologise for any unnecessary pain caused?”

A financial report shows that delays in some projects leading to lower repayments, and lower than expected pensions have added up to £574,000 underspend.

But Cllr Andrew Waller, the Lib Dem deputy council leader, said project delays were “no different to other years”. “We welcome that Labour recognises that the council has lived within its means, and are not disputing the proposals to respond to residents’ requests for investment in front line services.”

Tory executive member Cllr Peter Dew agreed the comments were “mischievous” as Cllr Barnes will know big investments are often re-profiled. He also said their efficient management had brought in other savings, meaning the council could invest more in front line services.

“We have invested significantly in help for the most vulnerable and will continue to do so, and there continues to be money available in the York Financial Assistance scheme. We are continuing to invest in housing, and that includes vastly improved temporary accommodation for the homeless at James House, where work is already well under way.”