Council uses resident feedback to shape services amid budget cuts. Engagement is vital for tough decisions
The council needs to save £37 million soon. Community involvement is essential in this as they must deliver services people need. Your feedback goes into the budget report. The council reviews your opinions carefully, and it will be available on February 27.
Llancaiach Fawr Manor is a good example. People wanted the cultural hub to stay open, so the council mothballed it but sought a solution. The manor could reopen without a huge subsidy and is now being marketed to new owners.
The Meals Direct service presents another example. People needed the service to stay independent. The service was therefore saved and is being reviewed, with the council aiming to reduce its subsidy. Your feedback truly matters and guides decision-makers.
Two more reviews are open for comment now. These are for the library service’s future, and proposals exist to close three leisure centres too. Speak up soon to play an active role, as the consultations close on March 12. Information exists on the council website.
The council must make hard choices about the budget gap. They are doing this in a planned way, having invested in other community facilities first, such as pitches and sports halls recently.
Please work with the council on these issues. Help shape your needed services. The goal is to lessen any negative impacts, and they hope to navigate these challenges well.