Wakefield Council faces £3.1m budget gap next year

It is estimated that Wakefield Council needs to save £12.6m over the next financial year

A council in West Yorkshire has warned it faces a £3.1m budget deficit during the next financial year.

The announcement comes ahead of a meeting on Tuesday where senior councillors will consider Wakefield Council's spending plans for 2026/27.

The authority agreed to cut 270 jobs and raise council tax by 4.99% earlier this year to get its current 2025/26 budget approved.

Despite the latest announcement, Denise Jeffery, leader of the Labour-run council, said the authority was in a "strong position" to balance its books.

A financial strategy report highlights some of the main challenges over the next few years, with adult social care pinpointed as a key concern.

The council said "more vulnerable residents than ever before" relied on its support.

"These are statutory services which must legally be provided regardless of the budget position and the demand is at record levels," a statement added.

Jeffery, Labour councillor for Castleford Central and Glasshoughton, said: "Responsible financial management involves taking some tough decisions and we've stepped up to this challenge during more than a decade of austerity.

"That's enabled us to continue to focus on what's important to our residents, delivering on the things that matter the most in our local communities."

She added: "We'll continue to act responsibly. Our experienced leadership puts us in a strong position to balance our budget and keep delivering the services you rely on."

Initial budget proposals are expected to be set out in January, the Local Democracy Reporting Service said, followed by a public consultation.

Finals plans will be voted on in March.

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