Peterborough Council Seeks Public Input on Budget-Saving Measures

Residents are now able to provide their input on cost-saving proposals from a financially challenged city council, which include the temporary closure of a lido and reductions in library services. Peterborough City Council has solicited residents’ opinions regarding preliminary plans designed to achieve budget equilibrium over the forthcoming three fiscal years. During a cabinet meeting held on Tuesday, Mohammed Jamil, who serves as the Labour deputy council leader, stated that challenging choices required deliberation. The council anticipates a budget deficit of £23 million for the 2025-2026 period, attributed to heightened demand for services and escalating expenses. The discussion during the meeting also included the prospect of increasing council tax beyond 4.99%, which is the highest increment permissible without a public vote. Matt Gladstone, the chief executive of the council, indicated this was “unlikely” and expressed optimism that a government financial settlement would prove to be “positive” in contrast to prior years. He stated: “We had confirmation last week that we feel it’s probably unlikely we’d be allowed to increase above the threshold [for council tax], primarily because we’re not seeking exceptional financial support.”I think it’s extremely unlikely we’ll be putting council tax up above the limit but, as Councillor Jamil said, it’s normal practice to consider these options.” Addressing the suggestions to shut down libraries and temporarily close the city’s lido, Jamil commented: “These are not decisions we want to make, but we have a legal duty to set a balanced budget. “These are just proposals at the moment and no decisions have been made.” Dr. Shabina Asad Qayyum, a Labour ward councillor and general practitioner, affirmed that all 60 councillors shared the obligation to guarantee the delivery of a balanced budget. She further remarked: “That’s a legal requirement we have to meet. It’s not a political, or a Labour thing.” Adrian Chapman, the executive director for place and economy, stated that they intend to “proactively” engage with the Friends of the Lido group to solicit their perspectives and evaluate their suggestions. The digital consultation period will conclude at midnight on January 14. Subsequently, members of a joint scrutiny committee are scheduled to review the budget and present their opinions on January 29.