Dec 1

Budget Consultation 2026/27

The local authority is asking the public for input on its spending priorities and Council Tax for the upcoming year.

People can take a survey to provide feedback on various options proposed to address a budget gap. Unpaid carers and families are urged to participate to ensure their needs are considered.
The survey includes information on savings options, and FAQs can be found on the Council’s website.
Participants can choose to respond to as many options as they like. Free internet access and IT support are available in libraries, and paper forms can be found in libraries and community centres.
This budget consultation follows a review that revealed a funding deficit of £8.4 million for next year, which could grow if current overspending isn’t reduced. The deficit must be addressed through cost-saving measures, increased income (including government grants), or a higher local Council Tax.
Each 1% increase in Council Tax would generate about £700,000 annually. If the budget gap can’t be fully covered, the council may need to cut some services, and details of potential cuts are included in the survey.