NORTH Somerset Council has invited residents to have their say in its plans to save over £45.8 million.  

An online survey launched today (December 2) allows residents to comment on the plans, as well as the council's 2025 to 2028 budget.  

The proposals include millions of pounds in efficiency savings, service transformation proposals and changes to staffing structures to reduce costs.  

However, they also include impacts for residents and businesses including reducing grounds maintenance, changes to street cleaning and a review of library services. 

Councillor Mike Bell, Leader of North Somerset Council said: “The demand for and cost of providing services has increased significantly over the past decade and this has made the job for councils much harder.  

READ MORE: Clevedon centre for people with learning difficulties closes

“We are having to make tough decisions to protect vital services as best we can and continue to deliver low cost, good quality services for our residents. We are not shying away from the challenge.” 

The proposals are part of an attempt by the council to balance its books as it faces what has been described as a “financial emergency” and is in danger of issuing a section 114 notice — effectively declaring bankruptcy. 

This has led to the council inviting residents to have their say through the survey, which will be running until January 13 next year.  

Residents are asked for any comments they have on the proposed budget, the savings proposals listed, whether they’d support a further increase in council tax, would consider helping pay for services through a voluntary contribution, what the council’s top priority should be for the coming year and how the savings proposed could affect residents. 

Cllr Bell said: “I know that residents sometimes feel they don’t get a lot for their money from the council.  

"But as well as the visible services like bin collections and road maintenance, there are hundreds of other services we are providing every day.  

"From tackling homelessness to delivering social care, from supporting schools to running leisure centres.  

"Your council taxes help to pay for it all and the work we need to do together to make North Somerset a better place to live."

Cllr Bell said the council faces a “huge financial challenge”, and both residents and businesses could be affected by the proposals. 

“All comments will help us understand any potential impacts and will help us to make an informed decision in February when we come to agree the budget,” he added. 

The £45.8m savings plans were released last week and will be discussed by the council’s Executive on Wednesday (December 4). 

Alternatively, the council is also hosting two ‘budget drop-in’ sessions which are open to all residents and partners. No need to book, just drop by. These are taking place at: 

Tuesday 10 December between 3pm and 6pm at the council’s Castlewood office in Clevedon.  

North Somerset Council loses out on £50 million per year compared to neighbouring authorities as funding for local government is based on outdated measures.  

The government has confirmed it is reviewing funding options beyond 2025/26 but the council is concerned that any changes may not come soon enough.