People are being urged to tell West Lothian Council what services should be cut and what should be saved as bosses try to fill a near £50 million budget black hole.
The council has launched a public consultation on a range of budget measures that aim to reduce spending, alter local services and address the council’s budget gap.
The local authority faces a budget gap of £47.1 million between 2023 and 2028. The budget gap is caused by increasing costs and a rising population, combined with insufficient levels of government grant funding.
Once the public consultation closes, councillors will have a chance to consider public feedback and make a final decision on the measures early next year when the budget for 2023/24 is set and the Council Tax level is agreed.
West Lothian Council’s chief executive Graham Hope said: “Like all councils in Scotland, West Lothian Council faces constrained government funding and substantial cost increases over the next five years.
“This mean the council, along with the local community, will have to make difficult decisions about local services. Reductions in local government public spending have impacted the council for over 15 years and the council has made nearly £151 million of savings since 2007.
“To date, by planning ahead and sound financial management, the council has delivered a balanced budget – something we are legally required to do – despite some extremely challenging times.
“However, it is clear that further changes to local services are inevitable given the scale of the challenges we face over the next five years.
“We also understand that local people and businesses face difficulties from the cost of living increases. The council will face many of the same pressures from the cost of living, such as increases in food and energy bills.
“In preparation for the challenges ahead, we want to work with you – our community and partners - in shaping the future of local services in West Lothian. Your feedback will help us become more sustainable, address the future funding gap and meet the challenges ahead.
“Your views are extremely important and will help to shape the future of local services. I’d therefore encourage local residents, businesses, local partners and council staff to take part as the measures impact on everyone.”
The deadline for taking part is Sunday 20 November and all residents, businesses and council staff are being encouraged to take part.
Paper copies of the consultation will also be available within the council’s newspaper Bulletin, which is distributed from Monday 24 October to all homes and businesses in West Lothian.
Those wishing to take part can access the survey here
Don't miss the latest news from the West Lothian Courier. Sign up to our free newsletter here
