Anyone wanting to express their views on Barking and Dagenham’s £53.5million cuts package has until the end of today, when the public consultation draws to a close.

A budget briefing will take place at Dagenham Village Hall at 2pm – the final chance to discuss the proposals in public – while people have until tonight to voice their opinions online.

Up to 410 public sector jobs could be at risk over the coming three years under the far-reaching proposals, outlined by the council last month.

A number of care and homeless centres including The Maples, in Gascoigne Road, could be set for closure, while the council’s annual subsidy for award-winning enterprise and training centre Relish Cafe will be removed.

The borough’s entire fleet of 240-litre green waste bins could also be recalled, ending the weekly collection of green and garden waste, while more mechanical sweepers will replace street cleaners.

But while council jobs will be axed across the spectrum, up to nine new tax officers would be taken on in a bid to increase council tax collection.

Exemption for second homes, properties being repaired and unoccupied or unfurnished homes will be scrapped, while the level of council tax support will fall from 85 to 75 per cent.

In order to be able to do this while still protecting frontline services, the council has said, a number of savings proposals have been put forward and have been reviewed by staff, partners, the voluntary sector and residents.

Cllr Darren Rodwell, leader of Barking and Dagenham Council, said: “As I have previously said we do not want to make any cuts at all. This position is being forced upon us and as a result we have to review all services with a view to making significant savings.

“I must say that so far these public budget briefing sessions and online consultation have proved very helpful.

“Hearing residents speak about their concerns and priorities will undoubtedly help us when it comes to making the final decision and so I am keen to encourage residents to come along to the last two events or use the online forms.”

To view the proposals and to have your say visit lbbd.gov.uk/budget