Wrexham’s council leader highlights severe budget pressures leading to potential job losses and service reductions across Wales
Wrexham: Local authorities in Wales are really feeling the pinch. They’re facing a staggering budget shortfall of £559 million next year. That’s like a 26% hike in council tax or the potential loss of nearly 14,000 jobs. Yikes!
Mark Pritchard, the leader of Wrexham council, mentioned that while the Welsh Government has offered a bit of relief with a 3.8% funding increase, it’s just not enough. He’s worried about cuts to essential services and the possibility of redundancies.
He told the local government committee that they’re in a tough spot. “We’ve got no other option here,” he said, emphasizing the need for proper funding. It’s a bit of a catch-22, really.
He pointed out that adult social care and children’s services are already stretched thin. The council has put in an extra £25 million, but it’s still not cutting it. The threat of bankruptcy is looming, and he’s not sugarcoating it.
Mary Ann Brocklesby, the Labour leader of Monmouthshire council, echoed these concerns. She said councils have been under pressure for years, and resources are just not there to meet the growing demands.
She felt a bit relieved with the funding increase but warned that without it, things could have been catastrophic. Large-scale job losses and service cuts would have been on the table.
Gary Pritchard from the Isle of Anglesey council added that after 14 years of austerity, there’s really nothing left to cut. He’s worried about the impact of rising national insurance contributions and the uncertainty around funding for outsourced services.
Jane Gebbie, deputy leader of Bridgend council, mentioned that councils are facing an extra £44 million cost for care services that won’t be covered by the UK treasury. It’s a tough situation, and she’s grateful they didn’t get a cash-flat settlement.
Overall, it’s clear that local councils in Wales are in a bit of a bind. They’re trying to keep services running while facing significant financial challenges. It’s a tough balancing act, and the future looks uncertain.
