We would like to take the opportunity to thank all those who took part this year’s budget consultation survey.
The results have now been shared with Elected Members as they consider their budget plans.
More than 760 responses were received to the survey, providing important feedback on local priorities and a range of other questions. Each and every response to the survey will be read and carefully considered.
Councillor Shona Haslam, Executive Member for Finance and Budget Oversight
“Setting the budget for a community with such diverse needs and at such a challenging time is not an easy task. We are beginning to recover from the pandemic and now need to consider how, as a region, we rebuild – together.
“I want to thank everyone who took the time to participate in the survey. Your responses are already helping us to shape our budget proposals and ensure that we are responding to your needs and priorities. Recovery is the key now and how we rebuild our economy, our communities and our resources post-pandemic.
“Due to the funding constraints we are facing, like every local authority, there is simply no way that we can tackle every issue raised. Some difficult decisions will have to be made, whether that is in relation to increasing charges or reducing funding in certain areas.
“However, with an annual revenue budget of over £300million and an established and ambitious capital plan to invest in the region, there are a huge amount of positive things that the Council will continue to deliver for our communities, residents and businesses.
“We have many opportunities that we must capitalise on, from investment through the Borderlands Inclusive Growth Deal to the natural capital and assets that the region has to offer and the skills and talents of our young people.”
More information
- the meeting to set the budget for the 2022/2023 financial year will take place on 22 February, with the relevant budget proposals being published a week in advance
- more information about the consultation survey is available on our website