FORTY five further jobs are to go at Fenland District Council on top of the 81 already lost.

The council disclosed today that 85 posts are being deleted with those affected being invited to apply for 40 new posts that will be created.

Council Leader Alan Melton said he expected the new cuts would save the council up to �1million a year.

He said: “We, like the rest of the public sector, are not immune from the current economic situation and we have to instigate a painful re-adjustment, but our customers (Council Tax payers) would not expect anything less”.

Cllr Melton said today’s announcement was part of an ongoing “efficiency review” which is set to make overall savings of around �5million in the next four years.

In a letter to councillors, he says it is important to remember that the council has always regarded staff as its number one asset.

“With this in mind, we are approaching this task with the utmost sensitivity,” he said.

“Some of the personnel involved you will know. Please resist from discussing the forthcoming review with members of staff.”

He also warned councillors that “any lobbying by staff to members is in breach of the staff and member code of conduct.” He called for any instances to be reported either to him or to the deputy chief executive Paul Medd.

“From my own point of view, this is not a happy time,” said Cllr Melton. “I have known many of the staff involved for a number of years, but my overriding priority is the financial viability of Fenland District Council in view of the current financial climate.”

Cllr Melton revealed that all areas of their non statutory functions were being looked at to ensure the essential front line services were maintained.