Criticism for a project in Peasedown St John is growing as its costs continue to spiral out of control.

Gavin Heathcote, a long serving community activist, independent back-bench parish councillor and chairman of the Peasedown Community Trust, raised his frustrations this week at a scheme that is 900% over budget.

The Parish Council originally drew up plans to build a concrete path on the Recreation Ground in 2015. The cost was just £10,000. Now, six years later, the council is looking at a bill of at least £90,000.

Gavin Heathcote said: "The costs for this project on the Recreation Ground are astronomical. From a £10,000 footpath to one that is now £90,000 is unbelievable.

"To put it into perspective, this year the Council will claim over £250,000 in taxes from Peasedown residents. £90,000, or 36% of the overall Parish Council budget for this financial year, will be spent on a footpath."

Cllr Heathcote has also raised concerns about the lack of public consultation and says than even several of the backbench councillors have been excluded from taking part in the decisions surrounding the scheme.

"There has been little transparency over this project. Several of us have been excluded from meetings, or told we are 'not entitled' to vote or share our views.

"The public have a right to know why and how this project's costs have spiralled out of control. Plus, it's taxpayers' money being spent on land the council doesn't even own!", added Gavin.

Just last week, Mr Heathcote found out about a meeting taking place at Beacon Hall arranged at the 'last minute' with the project's contractors. The meeting was meant to be held on the Recreation Field, but moved, he claims. for fear the public would be there.