The County Council has launched a consultation to understand people’s views across Hampshire on options to help the Authority deliver a balanced budget over the next two years, through to April 2025, as it tries to balance the books in future in the face of rising costs, higher demand for local services and years of underfunding by central Government.
To date, by planning ahead and using its reserves carefully, the County Council has successfully found ways to deliver services differently and more efficiently, saving £640 million from its budgets since 2008, but despite these measures, there will still be an anticipated gap in the County Council’s budget of £132 million by 2025/26, and by law, councils must set a balanced budget. With much less money available, some very difficult decisions are needed, and it is important that the County Council listens to the views of residents and stakeholders, many of whom are likely to be affected by the outcomes.
How to provide your views
The Budget Consultation runs from midday on Monday 12 June to 11:59 pm on 23 July 2023. The County Council would like to hear from as many residents and stakeholders as possible, including across Hampshire schools, to help understand and consider the potential impact of any changes proposed. No prior decisions have been made regarding the proposals.
You can take part in the consultation via the online response form. For further information please click here.
