Council plans to save £16.4 million

WARRINGTON Borough Council has set out its plans to save a further £16.4m over the next four years, while protecting essential services.
A new report to the council’s executive board will be considered on Monday detailing the council’s financial strategy.
The Local Government Finance Settlement, announced on February 8 confirmed that Warrington’s government funding has fallen by a further 12.9 per cent in 2016/17.
This equates to £6.9m, or £33 per Warrington resident.
There are a number of pressures relating to increased demand and a reduced budget, and it is predicted that the council will face a significant budget shortfall unless cost saving measures are implemented.
Council leader Terry O’Neill said: “We are under no illusions of the scale of the financial challenge facing us. We are facing unprecedented cuts in our funding, but remain determined to work together to increase efficiency and make savings, while protecting the services that are so important for our residents.
“Delivering a balanced budget is increasingly difficult in the face of continued Government funding cuts – we have cut more than £100 million since 2010.
“Making decisions to cut or reduce services is never easy, but we are committed to ensuring the long-term financial sustainability of Warrington for its people”
Budget proposals will be subject to a robust challenge and scrutiny process by council members and senior management, alongside public consultation and engagement.
As budget proposals arise, they will go out for public consultation immediately, emphasising the council’s commitment to transparency throughout the process.