Like many other areas, West Dunbartonshire Council is “feeling the pinch” and has made sweeping cuts.

The one which has probably caused the most upset is that the public spaces and parks will no longer be maintained, i.e. grass cutting will be minimal with the planting of beds and containers being non-existent.

Whether we like it or not, we are living in a designated tourist area and this has been a blow since Balloch Park looks like it will be allowed to “grow wild” with paths being cut through the long grass – not ideal.

As Balloch is classified as a “tourist destination, BHCC tried to seek sponsors to fill the wooden troughs and plant towers but so far have had no response.

As the community council is not allowed to use its funds for such purposes, members of the community have decided to “put their hands into the own pockets” to ensure there is a floral display in the centre of Balloch.

This will benefit the village, its businesses and residents alike. We are delighted that the children at Haldane Youth Services have volunteered to look after the plants until ready for planting out and they will also assist with planting/watering/weeding.

Since these cuts have been made, we can only assume they will be there for the foreseeable future. With this in mind, and from past experience – e.g. trying to get volunteers for Balloch Park Buddies – we wonder if is it the case people expect others to do things for them and do not consider how their input will make a difference to the community in which they live? Or, is it simply that people within the boundaries of BHCC are apathetic?

If it is the latter, then we could all be in for a big shock if WDC have to make further cuts in future budgets.

To anyone reading this article, its authors can remember the days when people took a pride in their surroundings and local area e.g. clearing the pavements of snow and/or brushing them and picking up litter but perhaps we all have less time these days?

Nevertheless, if the council cannot look after things and we want to live in a nice place, then it looks as if we will have to “bite the bullet” and take ownership of where we live.