Agenda item

The Leader announced to Council that the draft Budget Consultation for 2025/2026 had been published and was to be considered by Cabinet, Friday the 10^th January 2025.

The Leader went on to state that whilst the improved government settlement figure is welcomed there is however a shortfall in funds to address the pressures within Governments in Wales. It has been estimated by the WLGA that the pressures going forward for next year in Wales amounts to £560 million pounds.

Despite the lack of pressure funds, the Leader informed Council that provisional local government funding had been secured to the amount of £253 million pounds, half of which is required.

The Leader finalised by requesting Council members continue to lobby to Welsh Government for an improved final settlement figure. The Leader stated that he would be responding to the consultation and urged members to do the same.