Opposition members of Bridgend Council are raising concerns over proposed cuts to the school budget in one part of Wales, stating that they are unsustainable. The council is currently discussing changes to the budget, which could include a 5% cut to schools budgets and a potential 9.5% increase in council tax. Other proposed changes include the closing of recycling centers for an additional day on weekends, a rise in general fees and charges, a review of home-to-school transport, and the closure of the Bridgend bus station.
The scrutiny committee members, after conducting several sessions in January, have expressed worry about the significant impact these reductions could have. Headteachers in the borough have referred to the proposed school budget cuts as horrific and unsustainable, fearing that up to 90% of schools could face deficit budgets in the next year if the cuts are implemented.
In response, the members have suggested alternative proposals to lessen the impact. They recommend spreading the cuts across the next four financial years, with a maximum 2% cut each year until 2028. Additionally, they urge the council to minimize the council tax increase, reconsider the closure of recycling centers, and halt plans to close the bus station.
Councillor Alex Williams of Pencoed and Penprysg applauded the collaborative effort in providing constructive comments to the cabinet and thanked all members for their contributions. Council leader Huw David acknowledged the extensive scrutiny the budget has undergone, assuring that the cabinet will carefully consider the recommendations put forward.
The cabinet members will now review the feedback, along with input from a public consultation, before finalizing the budget for the 2024-25 financial year at the end of February. The current budget-setting process is considered one of the toughest challenges faced by the local authority due to a cost of living crisis and a predicted budget gap in the millions.
In light of these ongoing discussions and the potential impact on the local community, the council is urged to carefully consider the alternative proposals and prioritize sustainable solutions that ensure the well-being of Bridgend’s schools and services.
