Northumberland County Council invites residents' views on budget priorities

From now, people can give their views on a wide range of budget and council service issues in an online questionnaire at nl and.cc/budget22.

This consultation runs for six weeks, until January 17, with the budget due to go before full council in February and a refreshed corporate plan to be presented in March.

Glen Sanderson, council leader, said: “We are continuing to progress the county’s economic recovery and deliver investment in our infrastructure and front line services.

“However, we know the national financial picture is very challenging with some difficult choices to be made - so it's very important people have their say – and we will listen carefully.

“It’s a genuine consultation and an opportunity for residents to let us know how they’d prioritise the services we deliver.

“In the new year we’ll also be looking to run an online question and answer session, as well as taking our budget plans out on the road and into our communities.”

Each year the council must set a balanced budget, which sets out its spending and investment plans and how its services will each be funded.

The budget must also take account of new cost-pressures as well as making sure all its services are as efficient as possible.

The council’s budget setting process is happening now and people’s views are vital ahead of key decisions being taken.

Its corporate plan sets out key priorities and shapes how services will be delivered, and performance and improvement measured.