Final opportunity for public input on West Sussex Council’s £2bn budget

Residents of West Sussex are encouraged to participate in a consultation regarding the county council’s priorities, which precedes a potential budget shortfall. The consultation period concludes at the end of the day on 15 December, with all submitted feedback to be taken into account during the budget formulation for the £2bn designated for the 2025-26 fiscal year. In July, West Sussex County Council (WSCC) announced an anticipated budget deficit of £60m for the upcoming year. This figure has since been lowered, and a spokesperson clarified that it could be further reduced to £8.2m, contingent on a decision to raise council tax. The council has stated that its primary objectives encompass fostering the economy, ensuring public safety, and optimizing resource utilization, alongside safeguarding the environment. WSCC is responsible for delivering approximately 80% of local government services, which include social care for adults and children, education, public health initiatives, fire and rescue operations, road maintenance, library services, and waste management and recycling. The council’s cabinet is scheduled to review the feedback gathered from the consultation during a meeting in January. Subsequently, it will present the proposed council plan and budget to the full council on 14 February for a conclusive determination.