Decision Maker: Executive

Outcome: Recommendations Approved (subject to call-in)

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: Yes

Date of Decision: January 6, 2026

Purpose: As detailed in the report.

Content: 1.    That the following elements of the budget for 2025/26 as its initial proposals subject to further consultation and scrutiny, be approved, namely:   ·       The budget requirement as detailed in Table A2 of Appendix A. ·       The budget savings and cost pressures covering the 2026/27 financial year, as detailed in Appendix B. ·       The draft capital programme 2025/26 onwards as set out in Appendix C; and; ·       the Treasury Management Strategy Statement, Minimum Revenue Provision Policy Statement and Annual Treasury Investment Strategy 2026/27 as set out in Appendix D.   2.    That the budget proposal currently assumes a 4.99% council tax increase, and that different options are also being considered for precept setting, as outlined in Table A6 of Appendix A, be noted.   3.    That due to the timing of the settlement, the significant funding reforms being implemented, and information still to be published by Government, there remains potential for further refinements to the budget proposal, be noted.   4.    The Executive reserves its position in relation to the precept setting options being considered and consequent use of reserves for the 2026/27 budget in recognition of paragraph 3 and pending further consultation, scrutiny, unexpected cost base changes and final funding announcements; and   5.    that the carrying out of consultation and scrutiny on the Executive’s initial proposals as set out in paragraph 1) together with all the options referred to in paragraph 2), be approved.