Shropshire Council under attack from Shrewsbury's outgoing Mayor Jon Tandy

Councillor Tandy has said he is "deeply worried" for the future of Shrewsbury following his year in office, but Shropshire Council leader Keith Barrow hit back, stating that Mr Tandy "contributed little" to meetings.

Councillor Tandy, a Labour member of the town council, who officially handed over to Beverley Baker yesterday, believes the Tory-run county authority has been a "constant disappointment" during his year in office.

He also revealed that the county is yet to feel the full force of cuts, and said he was saddened at their attitude to the people they serve.

His comments followed an emotional ceremony last night in which Councillor Tandy wished Councillor Baker good luck in her role.

But Tory Councillor Keith Barrow believes the comments are completely unfounded, and believes people need only look at the facts.

He said: "If you consider attendance at council meetings, Labour have barely contributed anything or come forward with ideas.

"They came forward with nothing at our last budget meetings, let's just look at the facts."

Councillor Tandy has recently returned from a trade trip in China, and believes serious changes are necessary if Shrewsbury is to flourish.

He said: "I don't want to leave on a sour note, I really don't. The people of this town have been marvellous and they have made my year incredibly special.

"But I am saddened by the people who are making decisions at Shropshire Council because their attitude has been disappointing throughout.

"They are parochial and so inward looking, I shouldn't really be saying this as a councillor but I'm a firm believer that you shouldn't let politics get in the way of things and I feel this happens at Shropshire Council all the time.

"They are not pro-active enough and I really worry for the people of Shropshire.

"I can't see a projected future for 10 years time. I can't see it at all, full stop."

Councillor Barrow disputed the claims, and said employment in Shropshire is on the increase.

He said: "We have ideas for a new university in Shropshire, Muller is expanding and Shropshire is doing really well employment-wise."

Councillor's Tandy's comments come amid difficult times for the authority, which has announced widespread cuts.

It was also caught up in controversy after a full council meeting was cancelled amid claims there was nothing pressing to talk about.

The county will undergo £80 million worth of cuts over the next three years, which will have a direct impact on services for social care.

Councillor Tandy said: "It's sad that they have this attitude to business, because I've had a wonderful year with the people of Shrewsbury.

"I don't want to go out on a bad note, but I am really worried for this town and our future.

"I've tried so hard to get people enthusiastic but Shropshire Council constantly say no.

"I feel very sad that I have to say that but if you compare Shropshire Council with Telford and Wrekin it's clear to see.

"Telford have come on leaps and bounds and we should be doing the same, but so far there has been very little progress."