Councillors hopeful that the new Labour government will give them a better deal
Councillors in Telford and Wrekin are hopeful that the new Labour government will provide them with a better deal.
Cabinet members met on Wednesdayfor the first time since Sir Keir Starmer swept into power.
They heard that the council is currently over budget £3.554 million, but were reassured that this WILL be significantly reduced by making use of the earmarked social care contingency, as well as the general budget one.
Councillor Paul Watling, Cabinet member for adult social care and health systems, said: “In adult social care, we continue to look at every opportunity.
“It is difficult because we want the best possible service to the people of Telford and Wrekin. We will see how working with the new government will give us a better settlement.”
Councillor Carolyn Healy, cabinet member for climate action, the environment, heritage and visitor economy, added: “Uncertainty has always been the key word. It’s been a difficult 14 months but it’s testament to the team that we’ve weathered the storm.”
The 2024/25 financial monitoring report shows that Telford & Wrekin Council ‘has an excellent track record of strong financial management and Cabinet members and budget holders will continiue their work to manage budgets as effectively as possible’.
Councillor Lee Carter, cabinet member for the Economy, jobs and neighbourhood services, said it is credit to the officers that the council continues to manage its position robustly, and it is testament to some of the investments made.
“It’s not all about providing homes and jobs for people and roads for people to drive on, but generating a return and money for frontline services,” he said.
“I totally support the report.”