Mark Whitehead 03 April 2019

Northants closes £65m funding gap in under a year

Northamtonshire County Council has had its emergency section 114 notice lifted after wiping out a £65m funding gap in less than a year.

A report to its cabinet next week says it is now set to be £100,000 in the black in what council leader Matt Golby claimed as a 'remarkable achievement'.

However, he said the council's position was still 'fragile' and 'robust spending controls' would continue.

Government commissioners were sent in last year to rescue the council from a spiralling financial crisis.

A 'stabilisation plan' including cuts in services, increased charges and job losses was passed in a bid to balance the books, while the Government allowed the authority to raise its council tax to 4.99% and keep receipts from property sales which included the county hall.

Cllr Golby said: 'This is a remarkable achievement for all concerned and I would like to thank everyone for their hard work in making this happen.

'Let’s not forget that our financial challenge stood at £64.4m earlier this year so to be reporting such a positive situation for period 11 is a considerable accomplishment.

‘However, we still need to be cautious as – although this is exceptionally positive – it does not mean that the council has made a full recovery. Our financial position remains fragile.

'As such, the council will maintain its robust spending controls, including the continuation of the spending control panels, to ensure all spending is scrutinised to demonstrate best value in fulfilling the council’s objectives.'

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Senior/Principal Regeneration Officer

Fareham Borough Council
£45,465 - £55,379
Our town centre regeneration is moving from planning to delivery, and we're looking for someone who wants to help make regeneration happen. Fareham, Hampshire
Recuriter: Fareham Borough Council

Chief Officer Place

Midlothian Council
£129,606
This role is responsible for supporting the Executive Director of Place... Dalkeith, Midlothian
Recuriter: Midlothian Council

Chief Officer for Inclusive Growth

Wigan Council
Grade
Wigan Council
Recuriter: Wigan Council

Civil Enforcement Officer

North Yorkshire Council
£26,847- £28,153
You will play a vital role in supporting local communities and visitors across North Yorkshire. Harrogate, North Yorkshire
Recuriter: North Yorkshire Council

Operations Assistant

North Yorkshire Council
£28,153 - £30,023 per annum
In this role, you will support the Operations Officer to deliver high-quality, dependable passenger transport across Harrogate. Harrogate, North Yorkshire
Recuriter: North Yorkshire Council
Linkedin Banner