Following the provisional settlement from Welsh Government Blaenau Gwent’s budget will increase by 3.6% for 2021-22. This has provided the council with an extra £4.2 million in funding above initial budget estimates.
The position for 2021/22 projects a balanced budget for councillors to consider, with no cuts to services. The Council understands the value of the services it provides for local residents and this is welcome position for next year.
Councillor Nigel Daniels, Leader of the Council commented:
‘The positive settlement from Welsh Government for next year is welcome news at the end of probably our most challenging year ever. As a Council we have been focused on forward financial planning over the last few years and in the development of the draft budget for 2021/22. I am pleased that we have been able to put forward a set of proposals that will see no major service changes as we focus on our key priorities.
The proposed budget protects vital services and provides helps us plan for a sustainable future as we recover from the demands of dealing with Covid-19.
The role and work of local government staff in our communities has been vital this year and we have been able to maintain services valued by local residents as well as going the extra mile to protect our most vulnerable residents.
‘I’m pleased the 2021/22 draft budget continues to demonstrate our commitment to improving services for all residents in Blaenau Gwent and building financial resilience for the demands of future years.’
We are interested in your views on our priorities and the level of Council Tax being considered and you can have your say here.