Solihull Council awaits a decision on emergency funding to address a significant budget deficit. The financial situation has improved slightly, but challenges remain.
Solihull: Solihull Council is waiting to see if it will get emergency government funding. This support is crucial to avoid a risky budget alternative. The council’s financial situation has improved a bit, but it still faces challenges.
Earlier reports showed a £6.8 million deficit for the year. Now, the forecast is slightly better at £5.6 million. The council has been working hard to find savings and manage spending.
In August, the council introduced spending controls to help with the budget. While things have improved a little, more measures were put in place in January 2025 to cut overspending further.
Councillor Ian Courts, the council leader, mentioned that tough decisions are ahead. Some proposals have already been voted on, including scrapping a council-run lottery and introducing a £49 charge for garden waste collection.
Additionally, a housing scheme for ex-offenders was canceled, and a plan for staff resignations to save money was approved. The council has asked the government for emergency support to help balance the budget.
The report states that this funding would allow the council to manage costs better. However, the government’s decision won’t come until late February, so an alternative budget is also being prepared.
This alternative budget would rely on using reserves, which goes against auditor recommendations. It carries a high risk, as it may not provide the necessary funds for sustainable savings.
Councillor Courts noted that the budget process is challenging, with rising funding pressures. The next meeting to discuss this will be on February 10 at the Civic Suite, starting at 6 pm. It’s open to the public and can also be viewed online.
