URL: https://democracy.blackburn.gov.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=1091

Decision Maker: Executive Board

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: Yes

Purpose: Update to Medium Term Financial Plan 2026/29 and Development of General Fund Budget 2026/27

Content: RESOLVED   (1)  That the key risks to the delivery of the budget in 2025/26 be noted and that these be subject to consideration as part of the regular Budget Monitoring reports submitted to the Executive Board.   (2)  That the uncertainty with the funding outlook for the Council, due in part to the Governments proposed Local Government Finance reforms be noted.   (3)  That the update to the Medium Term Financial Plan for 2026/29, as shown at Appendix A attached to the report, be noted and further updates be provided in October 2025.   (4)  That the scenario analysis shown at Appendices D and E attached to the report, which modelled ’worse/better’ case scenarios around the baseline Medium Term Financial Plan be noted as part of the assessment of potential risks facing the Council.   (5)  That the timetable set out in the report for the development of the Council’s Budget for 2026/27 be noted.   (6)  That the Portfolios instigate a review of all fees and charges in their Portfolio Budgets, in line with the agreed Fees and Charges Framework with a view to maximising the amount of income received by the Council and that, as appropriate, these be approved no later than October 2025 (for implementation from January 2026 where possible).   (7)  That the outline Budget Strategy for 2026/29 set out at paragraph 5.46 in the report be agreed, and the Strategic Directors be requested to identify and bring forward budget savings options for 2026/27.   (8)  That, subject to consideration by respective Portfolio Holders, any budget proposals arising from the work above be considered by the Executive Board in due course (and subject to the proposal on consultation in (9) below).   (9)  That, subject to the work above and agreement with Councillors, some form of public and business-based consultation on the budget savings proposals should take place over Autumn 2025 with a view to informing decisions on the Council’s budget for 2026/27.

Date of Decision: June 12, 2025