Wiltshire demands fairer funding for rural counties
The council is to receive a lower amount of funding from the Government next year
Wiltshire Council has demanded fairer funding for rural counties, after it emerged the authority would receive less – rather than more – in a £78 billion government grant bonanza.
The Government Finance Settlement sets out how billions of pounds of of investment will be shared out among England’s councils.
But Liberal Democrat-run Wiltshire Council has been told to expect less in grant funding, as urban councils reap the rewards of a Labour government decision.
The new plan has shifted funding towards deprived urban areas – a move the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government says is a bid to restore “pride and opportunity in left behind places”.
London boroughs including Luton, Enfield, and Newham have done best from the deal, followed by Manchester, Birmingham, and Derby.
Housing minister Steve Reed said: “This is a chance to turn the page on a decade of cuts, and for local leaders to invest in getting back what has been lost – to bring back libraries, youth services, clean streets, and community hubs.
“We’re making sure every community has the funding they need to succeed.”
But the leader of Wiltshire Council says his authority will receive less under the settlement – and that the government is expecting council tax increases to make up the shortfall.
Cllr Ian Thorn said: “While the multi-year provisional local government settlement provides some clarity for forward planning, the reality remains challenging with the financial pressures the council faces without adequate funding from government.
“Although the government states that councils’ core spending power has increased by 5.7 per cent, much of this relies on council tax rises, leaving limited flexibility to address funding gaps.
“We will, in fact, receive less grant funding, which will place further strain on already stretched budgets.
“We urge Government to recognise that rural authorities like ours face unique and complex challenges compared to urban and metropolitan areas, and this should be reflected in future funding.”
He went on: “The demand and rising costs of adult social care, children’s services, and SEND provision continue to be a major concern.
“Without a clear long-term solution and concrete plans for reform from the Government, it is difficult to plan with confidence beyond the short term, and this is an uncomfortable position to be in.
“We are reviewing the implications of the provisional settlement which include wide ranging changes to funding and will respond to the Government’s consultation.
“This will inform our budget proposals, due early next year.
“Despite these challenges, we remain committed to delivering value for money, achieving financial sustainability, and providing vital services for our communities.”