South Ribble Borough Council is inviting residents to take part in a pre-budget consultation to help guide spending priorities for the financial year 2026/2027.
The consultation is open until 24 August 2025 and can be accessed at www.southribble.gov.uk/consultations
This is the first of two planned consultations. The initial phase seeks input on key areas where residents believe investment should be focused. Early next year, a second consultation will gather feedback on the draft budget before it is formally approved by councillors.
Councillor Matthew Tomlinson, Leader of South Ribble Borough Council said, “Traditionally, we’ve asked for feedback from residents once a draft budget is already in place. This year, we’re taking a more proactive approach, engaging with residents earlier so their views can directly influence our planning and priorities.”
Each autumn, the council agrees its corporate strategy and outlines the projects it aims to deliver. This early consultation will help identify which areas matter most to residents, ensuring that future plans reflect community need.
Residents are encouraged to share their views on which strategic commitments should receive the most investment. These include projects around green and clean neighbourhoods, healthy and happy communities, providing opportunities for everyone and being an exemplary council.
South Ribble Borough Council currently forecasts a budget shortfall of £2.183m for 2026/27 and continues to face increasing demand for services and ongoing uncertainty around the future of local government funding.
Councillor Tomlinson continued, “We get our funding from a range of sources. People might not be aware, but only around 12% of the council tax they pay stays with South Ribble. The vast majority goes to Lancashire County Council, the Police and Crime Commissioner, and the Fire and Rescue Service. We also get funding from business rates, government grants, and income from services like planning and leisure.
“It’s vital we use these resources wisely to maintain high-quality services and support our residents beyond our statutory responsibilities and the feedback gathered will help shape a balanced and ambitious draft budget, which will be presented for final consultation in early 2026.”