The Head of Finance presented the report which set out updates to the 2025/26 budget process within the existing framework of the 10-year budget and savings plan.  The position in the report set out an annual budget gap of £297,000 but recognised that this was likely to change as more information became available and options for further savings may be required.

Informed by the latest information from Government and discussions from Cabinet, it was proposed that the Council once again set a balanced 10-year budget.

As part of the feedback received last year, all Members had been invited to make suggestions which related to the relevant Advisory Committee and would be set out in Appendix K. The appendix would form the basis to report to Cabinet all suggestions that were received even if not taken forward by the Advisory Committee.

The report presented growth items that had been identified which needed to be considered, and requested further suggestions from the Advisory Committee and from members attending the meeting, before finalising the budget for 2025/26. 

Members considered four growth items including a reduction in anticipated income achieved through Planning Application Fee income to align with the income that was coming in from the applications made as a one off-cost and increased cost for ecology impact work due to the cost of advice from KCC. There would be additional costs for the Local Development Plan due to the additional work and an increase in software costs.

Members considered the SCIAS as set out within the report and discussed the reasons why income on planning application fees had decreased within the expected budget. Due to NPPF revisions anticipated, the budget costs would be split across three years, and these costs would be required to be used to ensure that the Local Plan 2040 could be delivered following any changes that come from central government. Members expressed some concern at the cost of the software increases, and were reassured that the software was fundamental to the service.

The reduction in staffing levels/increasing pricing for paid services

Members discussed the suggestion and heard from the Chief Officer who advised that there were limitations on fees and charges that could be charged, as these were either already set by Government or could only be charged on a recovery basis. There was a staffing vacancy position being held to offset the reduction in income. When the expected upturn happened there was then the agility to respond and recruit ensuring that the service could be maintained.  Members agreed that the suggestion should not be recommended to Cabinet for the reasons set out above.

Members considered other income and saving suggestions which included advertising on Bevan place as a source of income and outsource InShape whilst still maintaining an information stream to residents in the District as well as potentially removing the Council’s costs but producing a revenue stream. Members were advised that these were under the Improvement & Innovation portfolio but, if agreed by the Committee, would be referred to Cabinet for consideration.

Resolved: That

a)      The growth proposal (SCIA R4, R5, and R6) identified in Appendices G &H to the report applicable to this Advisory Committee, be considered; and

b)      Cabinet consider the following suggestions:

                                i.            Income from advertising at Bevan Place; and  

                              ii.            InShape outsourced to a third party