Bath and North East Somerset Council is seeking residents’ views on its spending plans, including Council Tax levels, savings, and ways to raise income, as it faces escalating costs, particularly in Children’s and Adult Services.
Addressing these pressures is vital, and this consultation offers a unique opportunity for those who also care about tackling the climate crisis to influence how the council allocates its budget.
The budget consultation on draft proposals for the 2025/26 financial year runs until Monday, 20th January, at 5pm. It focuses on the revenue budget—the operational spending on day-to-day council services. This is separate from one-off capital spending, such as transport infrastructure, which will be detailed in February.
Challenges and Opportunities
The council faces increasing costs, with £13.76 million in growth proposals primarily directed at social care pressures, such as placements for children and young people with special needs and Home to School Transport. While long-term projects like specialist education and purpose-built accommodation at Culverhay, Charlton House, and Englishcombe Lane aim to reduce costs, these do not solve the immediate financial challenges.
To balance the budget, the council is consulting on measures including a 4.99% Council Tax rise (including the Adult Social Care precept) and increased charges for services such as green bin collection and residents’ parking permits. Even with these changes, Bath and North East Somerset would still have the fourth lowest Council Tax among South West unitary councils.
Climate and Environmental Spending Must Not Suffer
Amid these financial pressures, it’s crucial that spending on climate and the environment is not sidelined. Addressing the climate emergency is not just a moral imperative—it’s a long-term investment in reducing future costs, improving public health, and protecting our local environment. Initiatives such as improving energy efficiency in council buildings, enhancing public transport, expanding renewable energy projects, and increasing green spaces are key to reducing our carbon footprint and enhancing the quality of life for residents.
The council’s Climate Emergency and Sustainability Policy Development and Scrutiny Panel will meet on 16th January 2025 to scrutinise the proposals. This is a vital moment for residents to make their voices heard, ensuring climate action remains a top priority even during challenging financial times.
Your Voice Can Make a Difference
If enough residents participate in this consultation and demand bold action on climate change, the council will be less likely to remove funding to environmental projects now and in the future. By responding, you can help ensure that Bath and North East Somerset Council’s budget reflects the urgent need for sustainability and green initiatives.
How to Participate
To view the savings and income proposals and respond to the consultation, visit the council’s budget consultation pages on its website. The consultation closes at 5pm on 20th January 2025.
If you require support, such as a printed survey or information in alternative formats, you can contact the council at budget@bathnes.gov.uk or call 01225 396053. Completed forms can be returned to:
Budget Consultation, Lewis House, Manvers Street, Bath, BA1 1JG.
The detailed budget proposals will be reviewed at various council meetings, with public scrutiny sessions on 13th, 14th, 16th, and 28th January 2025. Full council will make final decisions on 25th February. You can also watch these meetings on the council’s YouTube channel.
Take Action
This consultation is a rare opportunity to influence how local resources are spent. By highlighting the importance of climate action, you can help shape a greener, more sustainable future for Bath and North East Somerset.
Let’s ensure that every voice advocating for the environment is heard—your participation matters.