Council set for £67m funding boost

Essential services across Telford and Wrekin are set for a multi-million pound boost following a landmark government funding deal. The provisional Local Government Finance Settlement, announced this week, will see the council receive an extra £67 million over the next four years.

The deal provides a three-year funding plan, moving away from previous one-year arrangements. Local leaders say this will allow for better long-term planning for social care and highway repairs.

Spending power for the local authority is forecast to increase by 8.8% next year. This includes £6 million in additional general funding alongside money for homelessness and children’s services.

Council Leader, Councillor Lee Carter, welcomed the move after meeting with government ministers in Westminster. He noted that social care costs are expected to rise by £15 million next year.

“This three-year settlement provides the certainty we need to plan strategically and make informed, long-term decisions,” Councillor Carter said. He added that the money will help protect support for “the most vulnerable residents.”

Telford MP Shaun Davies described the increase as a shift from previous years. He has been lobbying for a funding formula that accounts for local needs.

“This Settlement is a game-changer for Telford & Wrekin,” Mr Davies said. “It couldn’t be more different from the years of austerity and neglect that starved councils like ours.”

Secretary of State Steve Reed also praised the local leadership. He said the new formula aims to ensure everyone can access the services their community deserves.

The local authority currently maintains council tax at a level under other Midlands areas. Officials say the new funding will help keep these rates down while protecting services like free green waste collections.