Stirling Council budget passed

The leader of Stirling Council says yesterday's budget will help restore civic pride across the area.

Council tax in Stirling is set to rise by 8.75%.

They're facing a funding gap of £10.8 million.

Just under £5.5 million worth of efficiency and savings were outlined - as well as an increase in charges.

The local authority needs to plug a funding gap of nearly £37 million by 2031.

New investments announced yesterday include £300,000 for grass cutting and community pride restoration, and £100,000 for an eastern villages bus route.

Stirling Council Leader, Cllr Susan McGill said: “This budget will deliver significant new investments in the services that matter most to our communities, drive growth and help restore civic pride across Stirling.

“While setting a budget in the current financial climate for local government is hugely challenging, I am proud we have managed to address a significant shortfall whilst committing to additional spending in priority areas for residents such as roads, footpaths and the maintenance of our cherished public spaces.

“We have had to take some difficult decisions to do this, including increasing council tax, but these have been necessary to ensure we can deliver better outcomes for everyone across Stirling and invest in the area’s future.”

Cllr McGill added: “The feedback from residents in the survey informed our final decisions in the budget, whether that was rejecting or accepting savings proposals or where we should target our resources. Thanks again to everyone who took part. 

“It’s really important we maintain this ongoing dialogue with our residents, staff and partners so we can continue to meet the needs of our communities, navigate the challenges ahead and secure the council’s long-term financial sustainability.”