Response to the budget - October 2024
Ann Carruthers, President of ADEPT, said:
“This budget includes several encouraging areas of support for local authorities and the communities they serve. However, it also raises further questions and challenges.
“In particular, we welcome the announcement on simplifying the wider local funding landscape, reducing the number of grants, as well as moving towards a five-year settlement to enable effective planning. We also support the devolution plans that aim for streamlined council structures to enhance local service efficiency. ADEPT recently joined forces with other leading local government associations ADCS, ADASS, and ADPH, calling for urgent reform and the government has listened.
“Any additional money for highways is welcomed, yet the investment still falls far short of addressing the significant backlog. We also welcome the additional investment in buses and the rollout of active travel and electric vehicle charging infrastructure, although again, this is unlikely to deliver on local authorities’ aspirations for connected transport networks.”
“However, we are awaiting further detail on the local government settlement and how the funding increases will specifically support local authorities in delivering essential services.
“Local authorities have endured years of austerity and budget cuts, leaving public services at a critical breaking point: recovery will require sustained, long-term investment to rebuild the essential services that communities rely on. It was unfortunate the government did not take the opportunity to revise its position on fuel duty, which could have further helped ease the burden on the public sector purse.
“ADEPT remains committed to working with the government toward sustainable, long-term funding solutions that will ensure our communities continue to thrive with safe, resilient and supportive services for all.”
