Council statement on 2024/25 budget

At a meeting of Full Council tonight, Wednesday 6^th March 2024, the Council’s budget for 2024/25 was approved.

Like all other local authorities across Wales, Merthyr Tydfil County Borough Council has faced a huge challenge over recent months in trying to balance its budget. With this significant challenge we have endeavoured to protect as many services as possible, particularly Education and Social Services.

Difficult decisions have had to be made and £9.4m in efficiencies and cuts, as well as an 8% rise in Council Tax, are necessary to address the £12.5m funding gap.  

Council Leader, Councillor Geraint Thomas, said: “We have done everything we can to protect our residents, especially during the current cost of living crisis where everyone is feeling the pinch, however we have exhausted all options and have been left with no alternative.

“These cuts, and an increase in Council Tax at this level, which will generate an income of £2.24m, are the only way to help balance the books by 11^th March, as is legally required.

“Other Welsh local authorities have had to look at even larger increases – some as high as 16-20% – to close the funding gap.

“Residents have played an integral part on informing these decisions, with 60% of those responding to our recent budget consultation agreeing to maintain as many services at the current level as possible, even if it meant a reasonable increase in Council Tax. In addition to this we have taken onboard feedback from a variety of scrutiny meetings, which has included elected members from all parties.

“I respect the views of all Councillors and appreciate that this has been a difficult decision for everyone, however we have statutory duty as members to set a lawful, balanced budget.

“We will continue to face financial challenges unless we see more substantial financial settlements for local authorities.

“I want to reassure residents that we will continue to strive to find innovative ways to face these challenges in future.”

ENDS