THE recession has bitten hard at the Civic Centre with a pay freeze ordered and possible job cuts on the way- to meet a £19 million savings target.

Hillingdon Council, who is one of the borough's largest employers, is aiming to make £50 million worth of savings within the next four years.

Staff were told of the news in a circulated e-mail sent by Hugh Dunnachie, chief executive, who earns £185,000 a year.

The e-mail states: "Councils will not be able to offer any increase in pay for 2010/11, although this is disappointing, I know you will understand the position we all find ourselves in."

More alarmingly for staff, the council are entering a phase of restructuring, which they are calling 'a Business Improvement Delivery programme', which confirms there will be job cuts.

This is programme is intended to 'radically changing the way the council operates.'

The e-mail reads: "The future shape of the council will be smaller and there will be fewer posts.

"However, the more we can do now to meet our savings targets, the more we can do to protect jobs."

The decision has been lambasted by furious Unions who describe the move as 'a slap in the face for hard working council employees.'

Brian Strutton, GMB National Secretary, said: "Council workers will be absolutely furious about this and I'm personally appalled at the arrogance of the employers.

"There has been no discussion, no negotiation- just a political decision by conservative controlled local government."

Hugh Dunnachie told the Gazette: "I’m sure most residents in the borough would not be surprised by the fact that the council, like any forward thinking business, is making sure that we are providing efficient and value for money services.

"We are reviewing the whole organisation to see how we can better join up services, provide efficiencies through technology and improve customer contact.

"Ultimately this is likely to mean a smaller council but to focus on jobs would be too simplistic and wouldn't ensure we continue to improve services for our residents."

"Councils are not immune to the current economic climate but we will continue to lead the way through a modern and forward thinking approach and putting residents at the heart of all we do."

This not be the end of the matter however, as Unions admitted they would be consulting with their members, to take matters forward.

Peter Allenson, national officer for Unite, said: "The employers should reconsider and come to the negotiating table as soon as possible. In the mean time we will consult our members on the next steps."

Where do you stand on the debate?