Budget proposals move to the consultation phase

To do this, the Council is developing several savings proposals which will change how we deliver some of our services. The Council must deliver a budget that balances the books and addresses the current income shortfall. This means making tough decisions to reduce spending and ensure that the Council is financially secure. These decisions are contained in the detailed proposals shared as part of the new consultation, which includes changes to some leisure services.

Cllr Jilly Julian, Cabinet Member for Finance and Resources, said:

“Like many councils across the country, we face significant financial challenges, especially in the current climate of reduced government funding, the rising cost of social care for vulnerable children and adults and the continuing recovery from the pandemic and cost of living crisis.

“There are difficult decisions and changes to services to be made to achieve the budget savings needed to deliver a balanced budget.

“These proposals will allow us to continue making Stockport a place where residents, businesses, organisations and communities continue to thrive together. However, no final decision has been made and it is essential that as many people as possible have their say during this consultation, as this feedback will influence any final decisions on how our savings requirements are achieved.”

We want to hear from residents, and anyone can have their say on the proposals by using the online portal.

Physical copies are available at libraries across the borough or by writing to: Consultation and Engagement, Fred Perry House, Edward Street Stockport, SK1 3UR. Alternative formats, such as large print or hard copies, can be requested by emailing co**********@st*******.uk. Language support is available for those whose first language is not English if they cannot get support from a friend or family member.

This consultation period runs until 13 December 2023.

Following the consultation period, responses will be used to develop the proposals. The final results will be scrutinised and presented at a council meeting in February 2024, where Councillors will confirm the budget for the next financial year.

Visit the consultation page to find out more.