FEEDBACK from residents and businesses across Cornwall could make a real difference in helping to shape the council’s spending in the next four years, Julian German, the deputy leader said last as Cornwall Council launched the public consultation on the new four year budget and business plan.

As part of the consultation, there will be a series of public meetings, including one at Camelford Hall, Clease Road on Tuesday, December 12 at 6.30pm.

The council has already saved nearly £300-million since 2010, but will need to find a further £75-million in savings over the next four years to balance the budget and continue to provide essential services.

Key measures in the budget include proposals for an increase in council tax by 4.99% including a 3% increase for adult social care, an increase in charges for some services and a reduction in some services or to stop providing them altogether.

Deputy leader Cllr German said the council would continue to look for ways to improve services making them more efficient and prioritising frontline services and residents’ views could make the difference.

“In past years you have told us what you thought about our proposals for savings. This feedback has helped inform the decisions we make. This year, your views are more important than ever. No matter what is set out in the draft budget, no decisions have been made yet and the Council will listen to residents’ and partners’ views before finalising the budget next year.”

Residents can have their say on the council’s draft budget by completing the online survey available on www.cornwall.gov.uk/budget2017; by sending comments by email to [email protected] or attending one of the consultation meetings.

The budget consultation closes on Friday, December 29.

More information, including a link to the online survey, the draft budget papers and service savings plans for 2018/19 to 2021/22, and how the council spends the current budget, is available at www.cornwall.gov.uk/budget2017