Bath and North East Somerset Council are facing some "very difficult choices" regarding the 2024-2025 budget.

Councillor Mark Elliott, cabinet member for Resources said: “Despite managing our finances with caution, well-controlled spending and no high-risk investments, this has been a tough and challenging budget consultation to prepare with some really difficult choices we are having to make.  

"A perfect storm of inadequate government funding, high inflation and increases in demand for services, particularly in children’s social care - means we, alongside other councils, are having to make really tough decisions.”

The Council needs to find an additional £24.53m next year, and has put forward a number of plans to source the money required.

One of the proposals put forward suggests an increase in parking charges. In this proposal, the Council have suggested bringing in emissions-based parking charges for Midsomer Norton and Radstock, where parking is currently free of charge.

The parking charges are proposed to be equivalent to those in place in Keynsham. The Council say that this will also encourage a turnover of spaces, making it easier for shoppers to find parking.

Councillor Elliott added, “I am keen to hear what people think about what we are proposing before the budget is decided.

"For example, while we are fortunate in being able to raise additional income from our attractions such as the Roman Baths, to help us maintain frontline services, this is no longer enough to close the gap. So, we have had to put forward some increases in income, such as from parking, that not everyone will like, but I at least hope will understand.” 

The savings and income proposals can be viewed on the Council's website. The Council are encouraging residents to comment on the consultation, which opened on Friday 15th December and runs until Monday, 15th January 2024.

The consultation can also be requested in print, audio, braille and large print formats, as well as in other languages. If you would like to request this, contact [email protected] or call 01225 396975. 

Completed forms can be returned to Budget Consultation, Lewis House, Manvers Street, Bath, BA1 1JG