Durham County Council has proposed significant cuts to its annual funding, potentially reducing community support by £1 million. If approved, this decision could lead to higher council tax bills for residents across County Durham as town and parish councils struggle to cope with diminished financial resources.
The council, which is controlled by the Reform UK party, has faced backlash for suggesting these cuts to essential funding that supports local services and community events. The County Durham Association of Local Councils (CDALC) has expressed concerns that the proposed reductions would disproportionately impact the most disadvantaged neighborhoods in the region.
Great Aycliffe Town Council has revealed that it faces a funding gap of £145,000, leaving it with no option but to either cut local services or increase council tax for residents. The council stated, “This action is effectively forcing parish and town councils to make a choice, at very late notice, between making significant cuts to services and facilities or considering substantial council tax rises for residents.” They criticized the timing and lack of consultation regarding the funding cuts, describing them as unacceptable.
Local residents have been informed that the funding reduction could lead to an increase of £1.16 per month for Band A Town Council Tax bills, which the council argues is a “small price to pay” to maintain current services for another year.
Potential Impact on Local Councils
The proposed cuts could result in significant financial shortfalls for various local councils. For instance, Peterlee Town Council could lose approximately £161,000, while Seaham Town Council may see a reduction of around £95,000. Additionally, representatives from Trimdon have warned that they would be unable to host the popular Durham Brass Festival if the proposed £18,000 cut proceeds.
Labour County Councillor Rob Crute, who represents Blackhalls and Hesledens, criticized the council’s decisions, stating, “Reform UK councillors in County Hall voted to scrap the 100% exemption for some of the most vulnerable working-age households in receipt of council tax benefit. They’ve turned their attention to our parish councils by removing grants that provide valued local services in our communities.”
Great Aycliffe town representatives have reached out to the government and local MPs, urging them to reconsider the funding proposals from Durham County Council.
Council’s Response and Future Plans
In response to the criticism, Darren Grimes, the Deputy Leader of the Council, emphasized that the proposals would undergo public consultation before any final decisions are made. He remarked, “Rob Crute is hyperventilating over a consultation. It is typical of Labour to scream about spending cuts while offering zero solutions to the financial black hole we’ve inherited.”
Grimes further defended the council’s stance by noting that the funding arrangement for town and parish councils is not common in most local authorities. He stated, “We are simply asking why Durham’s taxpayers should be an exception to the rule. This administration has identified tens of millions in savings to protect frontline services.”
As discussions continue, the potential cuts highlight the ongoing financial challenges facing local councils in County Durham. The outcome could have lasting implications for community services and the financial burden on local residents.
