THE leader of Warrington Borough Council has issued a grim warning that the authority is likely to have to find savings of £50 million over the next three years.
This is £20 million more that the £30 million cuts the council agreed last year.
Coun Ian Marks (pictured) said: "This will result in a fundamental shift in how this council operates - making small savings everywhere will no longer be enough.
"Instead there will have to be a radical programme of business transformation which will see the shape, size and structure of the organisation change.
"All councils are facing exactly the same challenges as we are.
Coun Marks was talking about the budget setting process for the coming year.
He said;   "Following the Comprehensive Spending Review to be announced on  October 20, we are predicting a need to plan for £50m savings over the next three years.
"This is £20m on top of the £30m we agreed last year."
Coun Marks accepted this would lead to uncertainty among council staff but pledged to fully involve them in the process.
"It is vital to fully involve them in this process so they understand what is happening and we take advantage of all their knowledge and experience to help plan the necessary savings.
"We will also be actively involving the public and business at an early stage so they understand the scale of the challenge facing us and help us with their ideas too.
"Members from all parties will be involved and briefed as appropriate."