PLANS to invest £650,000 in Dudley Town Hall’s bar has led to a political punch up as councillors clashed over whether it can pay its way – and where the stools may be placed.

Conservative opposition members have said the money could be better spent as the local authority struggles with cuts in funding from central government.

The clash came as the council’s cabinet was discussing capital expenditure for the next financial year.

The Labour controlled authority defended the expenditure saying it will pay for itself in increased takings.

The venue plays host to music, concerts, shows, dances, fashion shows, exhibitions and comedy acts throughout the year.

But at a meeting on Monday, Tory councillors poured scorn on the plans saying they did not make economic sense.

Cllr Patrick Harley, Conservative group leader and a publican, said that amount could refurbish an entire pub.

“Is it really prudent to be spending £650,000 on a bar renovation at this moment in time when you are suggesting in a previous report you are suggesting budget cuts in children services and adult social care?”

“As someone who has experience of running bars and investing in them,  £650,000 is a hell of a lot of money.

“Having seen some pub refurbishments and that amount would probably rebuild an entire pub.”

Council leader Cllr Zada Qadar said the investment was expected to see a rise in takings of £50,000 in the first year followed by increases of £100,000 and £200,000 in subsequent years.

Offering to show Cllr Harley the business plan, Cllr Qadar said: “This is a one off investment that generates a recurrent income which means in the long term we will see more than the £650,000 come back.”

He added: “I would say have a look at the business case because the business case stacks up financially and if you got any suggestions as to where the stools might be, we will take that into consideration.”

Cllr Harley, shot back: “That is a ridiculous remark.”

The report was passed by the cabinet.