Councillor Ian Marks says public finances are in bad shape. He blames Labour and the Conservatives for mistakes.
Labour councillors voted in favor of the budget. Liberal Democrats and Independents voted against it. Only one Conservative councillor exists, and that councillor voted against the budget.
Liberal Democrats lead the opposition.
Mark Browne, a Liberal Democrat councillor, said councils face difficult times now and supports some efficiency ideas. Labour did not consult them, and details on cuts remain unclear. They had little time to check plans and needed more info on the impact. They worked with officers on solutions that address resident concerns while balancing the budget.
The ruling group agreed to consult earlier next year.
Ian Marks, a Liberal Democrat and finance spokesperson who is a former council leader, said public finances are bad. He believes Labour inherited issues from Conservatives and thinks they made mistakes.
Most councils struggle with budgets. Adult social care, support for kids with special needs, and homelessness face huge pressure. Many hospital beds hold patients ready to leave, awaiting care packages. Devolution sounds good, but might not fix everything though.
The government plans multi-year settlements beginning in 2026. This should make planning easier moving forward.
Free parking cuts worried residents greatly, especially in Lymm and Stockton Heath car parks. A petition got over 4,000 signatures. Compromises kept free parking after talks. Residents wonder why some car parks are free and consider this very unfair.
Stockton Heath’s recycling center must close, requiring a replacement down south. Homes England knows this is a requirement here. Without a southern recycling center, traffic will increase, worsened by new construction. They regret the lack of commitment to a new center.
Libraries are vital to communities. Westbrook’s library will close, while Stockton Heath and Lymm libraries are busy places. Volunteers may run them next. Consult users, groups, and councils about the new model. Review opening days, hours, and operations. A staff member will need to manage volunteers.