The Chancellor of Essex told councillors “aspirations remain undimmed” for the county.
Councillor Chris Whitbread spoke at Full Council ahead of our budget next year.
He spoke about what has been delivered for residents since our last budget in February this year. This includes:
- 1,860 new school places
- Three new primary schools in Basildon, Chelmsford and Maldon
- £38 million invested in highways. This includes Priority One funding for resurfacing potholes, kerbs and vegetation maintenance
- 412,000 trees planted over the last four years
- £9.436 million Household Support Fund. The fund helps those struggling with the cost of energy, groceries, bills and so on
- Two new children’s residential homes with further homes planned
- New Waste Strategy for Essex alongside district, borough and city council partners
- Around 11,600 adults with social care needs supported by new care technology
- Launch of the Caring Communities Commission to tackle increasing pressures on public services
- Investment and support in foster care with new models providing placements for children
Councillor Whitbread also spoke about financial pressures on local councils across the country.
This includes services with increasingly complex needs. For example, children's services, adult social care and SEND.
Councillor Whitbread called on the government to increase financial support for local authorities. However, he is confident Essex will weather the storm through strong financial management.
He said: "It’s no secret local councils across the country are facing financial challenges. Essex is not immune to them.
"We have a track record of strong financial management. We have saved over £1 billion since 2008, and we will never have a higher council tax rate than we need.
"Our budget next year will focus on protecting essential services. It will deliver on residents’ priorities by providing value for money. This includes our capital programme to build infrastructure and boost the local economy.
“We therefore remain positive, with high aspirations for the future.”
Watch the Full Council meeting of Essex County Councillors online.