The Council of Surrey Council met on Tuesday 3 February 2026 to discuss and approve the final budget for 2026-27, alongside the Medium Term Financial Strategy. The meeting also addressed the annual adjustment to the Members' Allowances Scheme for 2026-27.

2026-27 Final Budget and Medium Term Financial Strategy

The council approved the final budget for 2026-27 and the associated Medium Term Financial Strategy. This budget aims to address significant financial pressures facing the council, including rising costs for services such as adult social care and children's services. The strategy outlines how the council plans to manage its finances over the next few years, detailing projected income and expenditure.

Key to the budget is the proposed council tax increase. The council agreed to a 4.99% increase in council tax for 2026-27. This increase is comprised of a 2% precept for adult social care, which is a ring-fenced fund specifically for social care services, and a 2.99% general increase. This decision was made in response to the growing demand and cost of delivering essential services.

The report on the budget highlighted significant pressures, with Annex A detailing these and the efficiencies planned to mitigate them. Annex B provides a detailed breakdown of the revenue budget, while Annex C outlines the capital programme. Annex D projects the council's earmarked reserves and balances. The council's commitment to maintaining services while managing financial challenges was a central theme.

Members' Allowances Scheme Adjustment 2026-27

The council considered the annual adjustment to the Members' Allowances Scheme for 2026-27. This scheme determines the payments made to councillors for their work. The proposed adjustment, detailed in the cover report and Annex 1, reflects changes in the scheme for the upcoming financial year. The council agreed to the proposed adjustments to the Members' Allowances Scheme.

Report of the Cabinet

The council received and noted the Report of the Cabinet. This report provides an overview of decisions and discussions that have taken place at the Cabinet level, offering insight into the executive functions of the council.

Council Member Questions and Responses

The meeting included a session for Council Member Questions and Responses, as documented in the relevant report. This allows elected members to raise issues and seek clarification from council officers and leadership on various matters.