BASILDON Council leader Gavin Callaghan has hit back at criticism after it emerged just short £10,000 of taxpayers’ money was used to fund a swanky new office for the authority boss.

Senior Tories have accused the Labour chief of overindulging in his new base, in the council building.

But Mr Callaghan hit back strongly, defending features such as a £5,000 frosted door and said he had “no idea” how much money had been put into it.

He also argued it was not his decision to build a new office, and was told to relocate because the Safer Basildon Hub was expanding.

Andrew Baggott, the leader of Basildon’s Conservatives, said: “The leader’s office should simply have been sacrificed.

“We consider that there are already ample meeting rooms and alternative venues for the leader to hold meetings if required.

“At a time like this, when every penny of taxpayers’ money is precious, this seems recklessly self-indulgent.

“How many free school meals could be funded with that money?

“It’s not in the interest of the borough of Basildon.

“He’s right in the middle of the officers, and not with the rest of the councillors. It’s intimidatory to do that.”

But Mr Callaghan has said being amongst his officers allows for greater communication, adding: “If they want to say it’s £10,000, it must be £10,000.

“I wasn’t aware of how much it cost.

“We need visible leadership, and people should be able be to pop their head around the office door and have a chat.

“I have a very good relationship with all my officers.”

He added: “This isn’t ‘Gavin Callaghan’s office’, it’s an office for the leader of Basildon Council.

“I’m sure the next leader will use the office.”

The Tories claim the new office has been converted from a storage cupboard, with ceilings and floor alterations costing £1,050.

Mechanical and electrical alterations were priced at £2,690.

In total, figures show the office cost a total of £9,993.80.