Falkirk Council budget passed

The leader of Falkirk Council says an 8.77% council tax rise will help the council's long-term future.

That's the message from the Council Leader.

The local authority passed their budget - looking to plug a £14.5 million gap in funding.

Four under-threat school bus services are to stay running.

Plans to reduce grass cutting at two local parks have also been shelved.

Council leader Cecil Meiklejohn said:

"We know this continues to be a very challenging time for public finances. The cost of delivering essential services is rising and demand for support, particularly in areas such as social care and family services, remains high.  

“This budget sets out a balanced and responsible financial plan. It protects the services that many residents rely on while allowing us to invest in the condition of our buildings, roads and public spaces and in the wellbeing of our communities.  

“Falkirk has received one of the higher funding increases from the Scottish Government this year, which has helped put the Council in a stronger position than in previous years. By planning carefully and identifying savings through operational efficiencies, we have been able to avoid relying on one-off measures to balance the budget.  

“The approach we have taken spreads the responsibility across savings, investment and Council Tax decisions. It means we can continue to support our most vulnerable residents while also investing in the places where people live.  

“The budget includes additional funding for social care, work to tackle child poverty and gender-based violence, and expanded family support services. It also creates a new, clean and green team to respond to concerns residents have raised about litter, fly-tipping and the appearance of local areas.  

“We are also committing significant capital investment in our infrastructure. We hope this could include improvements to roads and street lighting, investment in schools and community facilities, and progress on projects such as the new Falkirk Town Hall and leisure facilities across the area.  

“These are long-term investments that will support our communities and local services for many years.  

“We recognise that any increase in Council Tax has an impact on household budgets. Support remains in place through the Council Tax Reduction Scheme for people on lower incomes, and many households will not see their bills increase.  

“Taken together, this budget aims to protect essential services, invest in communities and place the Council on a more sustainable financial footing for the years ahead.