A COUNCIL has defended its decision to appoint a private company to help run its essential services.

Middlesbrough Borough Council officials insist they will retain overall control.

The strategic partnership has been criticised by some people, who believe only elected councillors should be in charge of the town's affairs.

Unions have also expressed concern that private partnerships could mean job losses.

One Middlesbrough resident, Henry Robinson, said: "Why did we democratically vote our councillors into office in the first place? To run the services in the borough. It makes one wonder: Why bother to vote next time around?

"Whichever company is chosen as the council's partner, no one is going to do anything for nothing and it may cost us dearly."

Two companies, Amey and Hyder Business Services, are fighting to help run the council's services after being chosen from four applicants.

A council spokeswoman said: "We're working in partnership with the private sector to get the very best for the town.

"The council has a full and important role to play, but we recognise that we must work with private partners if we want to achieve our aim of improving access to services, protecting jobs and creating new ones, and attracting investment to Middlesbrough.

"The council will retain overall responsibility, through a partnership board.