Consultation launched to get views on 2027/28 budget

Public consultation to support the development of a balanced budget in 2027/28 has been launched following approval from Cabinet members today (Tuesday 27 October).

Residents, businesses and service users are now invited to read more about the council's financial position and give their views.

The survey asks which services matter most to people, where the council could make savings or work more efficiently, and how it could increase income. It also asks for views on borrowing money for specific capital projects.

The council spends approximately £580 million a year on running and delivering services which support the priorities set out in the Corporate Strategy.

However, with rising demand and costs increasing significantly since March in Children's Services in particular, and Adult Social Care, there is now a budget pressure of £7.4m in 2027/28. This has also put a strain on the current year budget, with the council now reporting an £8.9m overspend.

This means careful choices need to be made about where money is spent in the new financial year, while continuing to find more cost-effective and innovative ways to deliver services.