East Sussex Council Discusses £693m Budget Amid Growing Financial Pressure

Council leaders in East Sussex have met this week to discuss plans to spend more than £693 million on public services in the year ahead, as mounting financial pressures leave the authority facing a major funding gap.

Reports going before Cabinet reveal the council cannot rely on its own resources to balance the budget for the first time, with a £56 million deficit forecast for the next financial year.

Despite saving more than £156 million over the past 15 years, depleted reserves mean councillors must now consider nearly £3.1 million in new savings, alongside £3.2 million already planned.

Cabinet has also been asked to recommend a 4.99 per cent council tax rise — made up of a 2.99 per cent increase plus a 2 per cent Adult Social Care precept.

The council says Government funding reforms have left East Sussex worse off, with grants failing to reflect the county’s rural nature, ageing population, lower wages and areas of deprivation.

Funding is also expected to fall further over the next three years.

At the meeting, Cabinet members received an update on a request to Government for £70 million in additional borrowing, known as Exceptional Financial Support, to help protect essential services.

A draft three-year council plan was also discussed, setting out priorities including improvements to bus services, investment in local businesses, replacing Exceat Bridge, and expanding early help for families.

The final budget will be decided by Full Council on Tuesday, February 10, with the Cabinet meeting available to watch online.