Bridgend is gearing up for tough choices as it braces for nearly £5 million in budget cuts next year. A dedicated group met over the course of eight months to offer advice on how the council could handle this challenging financial situation. They’ve suggested a thorough review of council structure and a reevaluation of how council properties and resources are utilised.
The use of CCTV was a hot topic, with proposals suggesting that the police, as primary users, should help foot the bill. The group also floated the idea of surpassing inflation with any fees and charges that the council sets independently, while also getting tougher on issues like fly-tipping and parking violations.
Concern was raised about some local schools that might face budget deficits, prompting a discussion on reviewing their funding cuts. In terms of capital investment, they criticised current spending as unfocused and urged a more strategic approach aligned with service needs.
Housing was another focus, with talks about the council potentially expanding its role in the housing market by acquiring more Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) and increasing council housing stock.
As Bridgend’s cabinet members prepare for the next budget decision in February 2026, they’re committed to reviewing these recommendations. With challenging times ahead, it’s clear they’ll need to take a strategic approach to balance their budget while addressing the borough’s essential needs. Decisions made in these upcoming months could significantly impact local services and communities. Stay tuned!