RNLI lifeguard funding at risk of council cutbacks

Great Yarmouth Borough Council needs to save millions of pounds over the next three years

Funding for lifeguards at some of Norfolk's busiest beaches could be cut as part of a council's plan to make £1.5m in savings over the next year.

Great Yarmouth Borough Council said it could withdraw its annual £58,000 subsidy for RNLI posts at the town's beach, as well as those at Gorleston and Hemsby.

The authority is looking at ways to plug a growing deficit in funds following predictions it could face a shortfall of more than £4m by 2026, the Local Democracy Reporting Service said.

Carl Smith, the Conservative leader of the council, warned there were still "more difficult decisions to be made" but that a recent comprehensive review of its finances would help balance the books.

"We looked at everything and a lot of work has gone into it. Hopefully, we can hit the target we are looking for," he added.

Following a public consultation, the council is also looking to cut the level of council tax support available for working-age people from 91.5% to 80%.

The council said a £200,000 hardship fund would be created instead.

Council leader Carl Smith says more savings will need to be made in 2024

Other potential measures could include withdrawing £90,000 worth of grants to parish councils for parks and open spaces, increasing charges and fees for garden waste bin collection and cutting council roles that have been vacant for 12 months.

The saving measures - including the proposed cuts to RNLI posts - will be discussed at a cabinet meeting on Monday before the final decision is made at a full council meeting on 14 December.