New budget

On Monday 1 March Warrington Borough Council’s executive board approved the budget for the 2010/11 financial year. 

Cllr Paul Campbell, executive board member for finance and value for money at the council said:

“Setting our budget for the coming three years has been a challenge.  We consulted extensively with residents and businesses about our proposals at the end of last year and their views and the feedback received during this process most definitely shaped the budget plans that were formally agreed last night.  For example, as a direct result of what people told us, we have been able to withdraw the proposals to close two recycling centres and remove rangers from Sites of Special Scientific Interest so these will not now go ahead. 

“But in common with all local authorities, we have got to find savings in order to set an affordable budget. We have tried to do this as transparently and carefully as we can, however it is simply impossible to continue to provide all services to the same level. Therefore the proposals in our consultation, including the proposed closure of the crèches at three leisure centres, will now be implemented.  

“We have also worked hard to keep the council tax rate rise as low as possible, 2.4%, in recognition of the difficult financial times facing our residents. This is the lowest rise in the last 10 years.* 

“These are turbulent economic times and given the financial constraints faced by all councils, tough decisions unfortunately have had to be made.”

* For a Band D property this translates to an increase of 51p per week or a total annual increase of £26.64p.

Ends