Major funding concerns for county council are aired

LEICESTERSHIRE County Council is performing well but faces major challenges without national funding reform, says a new report.

The annual performance report shows the authority is effectively delivering services, managing its budget and transforming following reduced national funding.

It also highlights that services are under increasing pressure and without fair funding, the quality and provision of services is at risk.

Deputy council leader Byron Rhodes said: “By 2021, we’re on course to have saved £204m and long-term, prudent planning means that we’ve still been performing well. It also shows how by preventing injuries caused by falls and boosting road safety for example, we’re improving people’s lives.

“But we face a very difficult scenario. Under current funding forecasts, service levels are at risk and good performance will not be sustainable. Fair funding would unlock more money for Leicestershire and without reform, residents will see a much bigger impact on services. Our campaign has borne fruit with the government accepting the need for change and we look forward to seeing their consultation.”

The report draws together information from 2016/17, plus more recent statistics.

Leicestershire is the lowest funded county in the country and has been calling for fair funding for many years.

The document will be discussed by the council’s cabinet on Friday (November 24) and the full county council on December 6.