Council launches its 2020 budget consultation
16 Dec 2019
Have you say on our Budget 2020-2021 & Medium Term Plan 2020-2023 - deadline 27 January 2020.
Consultation opens today (Monday 16 December) on the council’s budget plans for the coming year.
In November, Cabinet approved proposals for the 2020-21 budget, as well as its Medium Term Financial Plan for 2020 to 2023.
The consultation, which will be used to help guide and inform the annual budget setting process, will run for seven weeks to allow for full discussion and debate at local area councils, parish and town councils and with staff and unions.
You can read more details on the budget plans HERE
Savings in excess of £9 million have been identified to balance the budget for 2020-21 and in total savings over the medium term of £16 million have so far been identified.
As always the Council’s focus is on protecting frontline services and making sure it provides excellent value for money for the people of Northumberland.
Councillor Nick Oliver, cabinet member for corporate resources, said: “We’re confident we’ll be able to deliver budget balancing measures for 2020-21 of £9 million, as a basis for budget consultation, albeit we still await confirmation of the Local Government Finance Settlement.
“These efficiencies will come from every service area and be delivered through a range of measures - from income generation to increased partnership opportunities and by working smarter.”
As well as savings, capital investment in the county is still a priority for the council, and their capital programme is still investing hundreds of millions in physical infrastructure including new schools, transport and highway improvements, superfast broadband, and new homes across the county.
Cllr Oliver added: “This is an achievable budget that delivers achievable savings, to make sure we provide services that make a positive difference to people’s lives.”
The final budget will be considered by County Council in February 2020.
To comment on the proposals go to budget@northumberland.gov.uk
Paper copies are available on request.
Have you say on our Budget 2020-2021 & Medium Term Plan 2020-2023 - deadline 27 January 2020.