Figures show a forecast overspend of almost £5million against this year’s budget – and more than £10million over the next four years. The council may need to deliver total ongoing savings of £10million from 2024 to 2029, unless government funding improves – in the form of grant or council tax flexibility. “Whilst not a current likelihood ... the council remains at significant risk of financial failure due to the inability to raise council tax income,” wrote officers. The borough says it also needs to build up staff capacity in key areas – which further adds to budget pressures. “The council faces serious financial challenges and must take some tough decisions and make changes to the way in which it operates,” officers wrote.

Source: Express July 21, 2023 09:45 UTC