Council asks public what should be cut to save cash

The council need to cut £30m from services over the next three years

City of York Council has launched what it described as its "biggest budget consultation ever" after warning its finances were at "breaking point."

Senior councillors and officers at the Labour-run authority said they need to cut £30m from services over the next three years to balance the budget, which is required by law.

Katie Lomas, the leading councillor in charge of finances, said the council was able to balance the budget but deciding what to cut required some “very difficult decisions.”

Council leader Claire Douglas added: “Our Big Budget Conversation is an urgent call to action for all residents to help shape the future of their council, and our city.”

'No more efficiencies'

The public consultation has now opened, with people invited to say which services they would prioritise and which ones they would cut or reduce.

York residents can have their say online, through a series of planned community drop-in sessions or using a printed form available at York Explore.

The council was already looking to sell some of its assets including under-used buildings, or ones that need investment.

There were also plans to propose the maximum 4.99% council tax increase next year.

That increase would have to be debated and approved at a full council meeting and any increase above 4.99% would need to be approved by a local referendum.

Ms Lomas said: “It is crucial we hear from all our residents and partners. Their feedback will guide us to prioritise the services that matter most to them, and ensure we can continue to support them.

“There are no more efficiencies to make,” she added. “This is about cutting services – which is not what any of us came into local government to do.”