COVID-19 and its impact upon some of North East Lincolnshire’s most vulnerable communities is continuing to put pressure on North East Lincolnshire Council’s financial situation.
And, says the authority’s Deputy Leader and Portfolio Holder for Finance, Cllr Stan Shreeve, public sector reform running alongside economic pressures and inflation, is also predicted to add to a challenging year for local government, both in North East Lincolnshire and across the UK.
However, a commitment to providing long-term financial stability has been made, with continued work taking place to improve economic and social prospects for the Borough, so that young people and families can stay and grow here. This includes a commitment to working with partners and attracting external and extra Central Government grant funding for things such as major highway improvements, industrial and economic development to improve opportunities for local people, and investment in our town centres, urban spaces and visitor economy.
Cllr Shreeve was speaking as a public consultation opened today asking for peoples’ views on what they think public money is best spent on in North East Lincolnshire.
The Council has a net budget of approximately £140-million a year to provide services. Supporting young people, families and adults in North East Lincolnshire is by far the major spend and that has accelerated over the last year with the impact of the pandemic felt by many in our community.
“Our position, like many other local authorities across the country, is ever-challenged and that will only increase as we continue to face uncertain times ahead,” said Cllr Shreeve.
“That said, we are determined to work hard to try and ensure services are maintained at an appropriate level, whilst looking at ways in which we can create opportunities for all.
“For example, we need to make sure we have the right ‘place’ in which our young people can grow, can progress and provide somewhere where, essentially, they want to stay. As we move forward into next year and the years after, yes there are challenges, but we must make sure we do all we can for all our futures,” he added.
To take part in the consultation please go to www.nelincs.gov.uk/have-your-say and paper copies can be provided on request by calling 01472 324380. The consultation closes on 27 January 2022.
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