Time is running out for local people to have their say about a new blueprint for the ways Nottinghamshire County Council provides services in the future.

Redefining your Council proposes wholesale changes to the way services are delivered and a modernisation of how the council operates, making the changes necessary to protect frontline services in the wake of huge Government budget cuts.

It is likely to mean that thecCouncil will deliver less services directly in the future, with some of the Council’s functions being provided by mutual companies, charitable trusts or commissioned from the private or public sector.

New technology and innovative ways of working are likely to figure prominently in the changes. And further, closer working arrangements with partners, local communities and the voluntary sector is also likely.

Fundamental changes are needed as the authority attempts to reduce costs by around a further £80m in the next three years, in the wake of the biggest Government funding cuts for public services in living memory.

Proposals for individual service areas will go out to consultation as they are developed, but first the Council would like to hear what local people think about the broader plans.

Residents are being urged to have their say by filling in the short questionnaire online at www.nottinghamshire.gov.uk/redefiningyourcouncil or completing a paper copy, available from all county council libraries.