Councillors will discuss Dudley Council budget proposals at scrutiny meeting later this month, including nearly £42 million of savings.

The five-year financial strategy, which includes plans for council tax to increase by 4.99 per cent in the next financial year, will then be put before cabinet and Full Council next month.

Several difficult proposals are outlined in the budget proposals, which are designed to ensure the Council remains financially sustainable for the next 5 years.  

A final decision will not be taken by councillors until the Council Budget Meeting on 24 February.                                                   

Councillor Patrick Harley, leader of Dudley Council, said the proposals would continue to steer the authority away from the risk of a Section 114 notice.

He said: “Like many local authorities across the country, Dudley Council continues to face significant financial challenges.

“Last year Dudley Council commissioned a review by The Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy. The outcome of this report, alongside a peer review, is helping us to take the decisive steps needed to get a firmer grip of council finances.

“Although there are many hard choices up ahead, I am confident that we are moving further away from the risk of a Section 114 and would like to reassure residents and businesses that we will continue to fight for the future prosperity of our borough.”

The council recently ran a budget consultation, which resulted in more than 2,000 responses. Members will consider feedback to make a final decision on the proposals.

Councillor Steve Clark, cabinet member for finance, legal and human resources, added: “I would like to thank everyone who took part in the council’s recent budget consultation, the feedback we received is very useful and puts people at the heart of our decision-making.

“Our proposals have had to include some very difficult choices, but we know residents want us to take the necessary steps so that we can continue to deliver key services for the people of Dudley borough.

“These will now reviewed at scrutiny, before going to cabinet and full council for a decision next month.”