NEWSROOM

A financial monitoring report due to be considered by Cabinet on 15 October shows the Council is projecting to remain within its approved budget at year end, while keeping its £21.7 million Budget Strategy Reserve untouched.

The report highlights the significant challenges including rising demand and costs in adult social care and children's services.

The balanced budget will enable the Council to continue delivering its priorities for local people, including investing nearly £150 million in social care services, supporting vulnerable children, older people and residents with disabilities, while continuing major investment in homes, regeneration, transport, education and leisure facilities across the Borough.

The approved budget also includes investment in additional SEND provision including new school places, homes for veterans, support for the development of Telford's first dedicated cancer care centre, capped £2 bus fares across the Borough, and improvements to local communities and neighbourhoods.

The Council has already delivered more than £195 million of efficiencies and savings since 2009/10, while continuing to protect vital frontline services and support residents across the Borough.

Councillor Zona Hannington, Cabinet Member for Finance and Resident Services, said:

“Councils across the country continue to face significant financial pressures, particularly in adult social care and children's services.

“Against that backdrop, our strong financial management and long-term planning mean we are forecasting a balanced budget while maintaining our Budget Strategy Reserve at £21.7 million.

“Most importantly, this financial strength allows us to continue investing in the services that matter most to residents; supporting vulnerable people, improving our roads and neighbourhoods, and investing in the future of Telford and Wrekin.

“While challenges remain, we are well placed to protect essential services, support those most in need and continue delivering for our residents.”

Councillor Lee Carter, Leader of Telford & Wrekin Council, added:

“Strong finances are not an end in themselves. They are what enable us to deliver better services, support those who need us most and continue investing in our Borough.

"This report demonstrates that we are doing exactly that. We have maintained a balanced budget, protected our reserves and continued to invest in housing, regeneration, social care, education and community facilities – all the things our residents tell us are their priorities.

"Residents rightly expect us to manage public money responsibly while delivering on the priorities that make a real difference. This report shows we remain firmly on track to do so."

The report also shows the Council continues to invest in the Borough, supporting infrastructure, regeneration, schools, housing and other key projects that benefit residents and businesses for years to come.

The financial monitoring report will be considered by Cabinet on 15 October 2026.