Agenda item

To present the draft Budget proposals and estimates for 2026/27 for the General Fund.

Purpose of report

To present the draft budget proposals and estimates for 2026/27 for the General Fund.

Decision

That Cabinet:

1.    Note the budget proposals for 2026/27 in respect of General Fund – Revenue and Capital.

2.    Approve the launch of the consultation in respect of Council Tax setting for 2026/27 in accordance with the requirements of Section 65 of the Local Government Act 1992 between 19January to 2 February 2026.

3.    Recommend that a sum of £100k is added to the Training and Development Reserve to support Apprenticeships across the Council.

Other options considered

The alternative options for the Budget were explored within the body of the report.

Reasons for the decision

The Council was legally required to set a balanced budget each Financial Year.

The following points were highlighted during debate:

• A member suggested an additional £100,000 reserve for training, apprenticeships and development at the Joint Budget OSC meeting. This would be incorporated into the final Budget report.
• The previous year had seen positive engagement and support to the Budget consultation, and it was hoped that this would be repeated this year.