A request to provide a bus shelter in Sidford was rejected by civic leaders who said it could set a costly precedent.

Devon County Council wanted town councillors to fund the structure, but gave no indication who had asked for it or if it was needed.

Members said it was the larger authority’s responsibility and they should not even ask for more information in case it implied their support.

“Who wanted it? Would we be responsible for it? How much do they cost? We need more information,” said Councillor Ian Barlow.

Cllr Graham Liverton added: “I don’t think we should be providing it at all. They could have at least given us the courtesy of information.”

“The county council is looking at how it can cut costs – I wouldn’t want this council to take on costs that belong to them,” Cllr Peter Sullivan said.

“I’m concerned that if we accept this, what else are they going to use us for?

“We shouldn’t be asking for more information. We should be saying ‘no’.”

Cllr Ian McKenzie-Edwards said that it should be part of the bus company’s service, but said he was unaware of any demand for a bus shelter there.

Cllr Stuart Hughes, who is also the county council’s highways chief, said he had not been consulted on the plans and so did not know if it was needed.

Members carried Cllr Sullivan’s proposal.