TWO local councils are asking for views on their spending plans.

The Forest Council is asking people to complete a survey while Monmouthshire Council is holding a series of local meetings for residents.

The Forest Council is looking for views on its spending plans for next year and the need to save £1.2 million over the next four years.

Council leader Cllr Patrick Molyneux said: "The district council recognises that there are tough times ahead financially and for that reason it is important to seek the views of residents on how they value our services and the importance they attach to them.

"This information will help us shape our budget for the next four years."

The council has prepared a four-year financial strategy which takes into account the risks to services over the next four years.

Full details are contained in a report which went to the authority's Cabinet on December 12.

Residents or local businesses who wish to comment on the budget strategy can complete the survey on the council's website http://www.fdean.gov.uk/go/budgetconsultation">www.fdean.gov.uk/go/budgetconsultation or to request a paper copy of the survey contact the customer services team on 01594 810000.

The closing date for the consultation is Tuesday 28 January and the comments will be considered by the Cabinet when it discusses the budget on February 13 and by the full council at its meeting on February 27.

The first consultation meeting in Monmouthshire will be at Caldicot School tomorrow (Thursday) between 6.30pm and 8.30pm.

That will be followed by a drop-in session in Caldicot town centre on Saturday (January 11) between 10am and 3pm, Chepstow School on Tuesday (January 14) and Monmouth Comprehensive School on Monday, January 20. Both those meetings will be between 6.30pm and 8.30pm.

The council needs to find £9 million worth of savings in its £160 million budget next year and at least £20 million over the next four years.

Council leader, Cllr Peter Fox said: "There are some big decisions to be made over the next two months.  Some of that will mean services change, stop or are run by other community groups. 

"We need to help people understand the situation that we're all facing and January's community events will give everyone a chance to ask questions and be involved.

"We want to talk with our communities and listen to what matters to them.  I urge residents to come to the forthcoming events and make their voices heard.  Their input will be crucial in helping us focus our limited resources."