COUNTY council chiefs have revealed more than £52million has been spent in response to the pandemic as County Hall tabled proposals for an increase in its share of Council Tax.
While spending is again set to increase to support the most vulnerable people in society, improve the prospects for children, and invest in the economy, environment and highway network, the authority has proposed an increase in its share of the levy by 3.94 per cent.
The county council has earmarked around £250million of its total budget to fund adult and community services and to improve the outcomes of children and young people in Worcestershire.
Millions of pounds more will be invested in supporting the economic recovery and funding services which are most important to residents, including improving roads, pavements and tackling traffic congestion as well as investing in flood mitigation and street lighting.
The council’s total proposed budget for 2022/23 is more than £373million, with an extra £25million earmarked for adult and children’s care.
Coun Simon Geraghty, leader of Worcestershire County Council, said: “The budget delivers record funding for adults and children’s social care to protect the most vulnerable in society.
“At the same time, we are investing in those things that residents tell us are important and need improving, such as better roads and pavements, tackling congestion and improving transport.”
It’s proposed three quarters of the 3.94 per cent increase is to be ring fenced for adult social care services. The increase is approximately £1 per week for a band D property.
Following the cabinet meeting, the proposals will now go for consultation before being debated at February’s full council meeting.
