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NM NEWPORT MA TTERS The official newspaper of Newport City Council


BUDGET SAVINGS PROPOSALS – HAVE YOUR SAY


In December 2015, Newport City Council received confirmation that it would be facing a reduction in its 2016/17 Welsh Government revenue settlement grant. This is the budget awarded to councils, enabling them to deliver their services. It accounts for roughly 80 per cent of the council’s overall budget, with the remainder coming from council tax and other grants and charges.


JANUARY 2016. Edition 2.........................................................................................................................


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The UK Government’s austerity programme continues to cause difficulties with the provision of council services.


It is the fifth year that Newport City Council has faced a reduction and although it was expected, the size of the reduction was not as large as feared. Newport’s revenue settlement was reduced by 0.7 per cent, equating to a total grant of £209 million. However, it still leaves the council in the position of having to make further budget cuts to balance its budget for the forthcoming financial year.


The Cabinet of Newport City Council met in December and considered budget savings proposals as it looks to save almost £11 million in the next financial year. Consultation with residents on the proposals is now taking place, with the options valuing nearly £4.5 million.


Leader of the Council, Councillor Bob Bright said:


“Despite our Welsh Government settlement being better than expected, we still have to make substantial savings in the forthcoming


financial year. That is why we will be consulting with our residents on our entire budget saving proposals – including those developed when we thought the Welsh Government grant cut would impact more.


“Next year’s improved settlement figure from Welsh Government means we can also focus on some of the positive investments the council is making in the city.


“It goes without saying that the education of our young people and the protection of the most vulnerable will always be prioritised.


“Our budget consultation will run from Friday 18 December until Friday 22 January and I would encourage our residents to take part and provide us with their views.


“The council has to balance its books while at the same time maintaining investment in major projects and vital services. It is important that we share this challenge with our residents and listen to their concerns and suggestions.”


Have your say by going to www.newport.gov.uk/ haveyoursay


For more news visit www.newport.gov.uk..........................................................................................................................................................NEWPORT MATTERS JANUARY 2016 1


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