Monmouthshire County Council received confirmation today from the Welsh Government that it proposes a provisional 2.8% increase in core funding for the upcoming 2025/26 financial year.

The proposed funding increase is welcomed and is a significant first step in recognising the continued pressures on delivering vital local services for our residents. Prior to the recent UK Government’s budget, Monmouthshire County Council was projected to receive no extra money next year. This proposed increase recognises the increasing demand for our services, particularly social care.

The proposed increase is, however, significantly below the average for Wales, which stands at 4.3%. This will result in some difficult choices needing to be made during the budget process.

The Cabinet will discuss the council’s draft budget proposals during a meeting on January 22, 2025, after which the proposals will be available for public consultation.

Residents, businesses and partner organisations can share their opinions on the proposals during the consultation process. More information will be provided on the council’scouncil’s website in the near future: www.monmouthshire.gov.uk/.

Cllr. Mary Ann Brocklesby, Leader of Monmouthshire County Council, stated, “This additional funding announcement signals a positive move to start repairing our valued Local Government services after a number of difficult years.

“I am pressing for a larger increase. I believe all local authorities in Wales should receive at least a 3.5% increase, and I will argue the case for Monmouthshire with the Welsh Government.”

“Our priority will continue to be our residents as we work to create a robust and fair budget that supports all Monmouthshire residents. In the new year, we will present our draft budget for public consultation; your views will help us shape a final budget that prioritises the services Monmouthshire’s residents value most.”

Cllr. Ben Callard, Cabinet Member for Resources, added, “We recognise that the overall financial climate in which we all operate remains challenging.”

“I recognise that our level of increased funding is below that of other local authorities. This is because the council has, over several decades, failed to provide affordable homes in the County. This will change under the current Administration. When so many new homes in the County have been in the top Council Tax bands, we get less than the average grant from the Welsh Government.”