Somerset Council: recycling centres and public toilets could close to make savings

Somerset Council leader Bill Revans said many of the available options were "unpalatable"

Recycling centres, public toilets and visitor centres could all close as a council tries to avoid going bust.

In November, Somerset Council warned that it was facing an £87m budget deficit for the next financial year.

The authority's auditors warned it could have to go effectively bankrupt unless action was taken.

Leader Bill Revans said there were "a set of options, many of which are very unpalatable, some heartbreaking, that no-one would want to take forward".

Proposals include shutting five of the county's recycling centres, ending council funding for public toilets and CCTV systems, cutting highway maintenance and closing two tourism visitor centres.

Mr Revan's administration will also seek permission from the government to put up council tax by 9.99%, twice the maximum rise currently allowed.

There would also be increases in fees and charges, including for parking.

An email has gone to staff and councillors setting out how it plans to stay afloat.

In recent months, the Liberal Democrat council has warned of a "financial emergency".

It blames rising costs, especially for adult social care and children's services.

Somerset Council declared a financial emergency in November 2023

The plans, which would save Somerset £35m, will be discussed by the ruling executive at a meeting on 15 January.

A public consultation is also under way.

The council is due to set its budget at a full meeting on 20 February.