Medway Council Approves Budget Following Recorded Vote

Medway Council has approved its budget for the upcoming financial year following a recorded vote at Full Council. The authority continues to navigate significant financial pressures affecting local councils across the country, with the approved budget relying on government support and careful spending management.

The council received more than £11 million in additional government funding, which has helped address part of the budget gap. However, this uplift was absorbed by increased pressures on statutory services. To achieve a balanced budget, Medway secured Exceptional Financial Support from the government for the second consecutive year, allowing the authority to borrow more than £18 million to spread revenue costs across multiple years.

For the 2026–27 financial year, the council anticipates requiring £10.1 million in Exceptional Financial Support, marking a potential third year of reliance on this government scheme. Whilst this represents a lower figure than previous years, it underscores ongoing financial challenges facing the authority.

The vast majority of Medway’s budget is committed to statutory services. Adult social care accounts for £184 million of spending, whilst children’s services require £221 million. Housing costs, including temporary accommodation, add approximately £90 million. This leaves limited resources for discretionary services such as parks, libraries, leisure centres and cultural activities.

A council tax increase of 5 per cent forms part of the budget strategy, in line with government expectations for authorities with social care responsibilities. The council is also reviewing fees and charges across services and identifying areas where increased usage generates additional income.

Council leadership has emphasised progress made through the Financial Improvement and Transformation plan, which has delivered significant savings in recent years. The authority has generated £23.4 million in additional income and reduced overspending compared to previous years. However, these efforts have not been sufficient to offset demand-led pressures, particularly in social care.

Council leader Vince Maple stated that the authority is hopeful 2026–27 will be the final year requiring Exceptional Financial Support, whilst acknowledging the underlying budget challenges remain unresolved.

Looking ahead, the council faces projected budget gaps of £8.6 million in 2027–28, rising to £24.7 million by 2030–31, assuming Exceptional Financial Support ends. These figures highlight the need for continued financial discipline and service transformation.

Key Takeaways

• Medway Council has approved a balanced budget for the upcoming financial year following a recorded council vote
• The authority received over £11 million in additional government funding but continues to rely on Exceptional Financial Support and borrowing
• A 5 per cent council tax increase forms part of the approved budget strategy
• Adult social care and children’s services consume the majority of the council’s budget, leaving limited capacity for discretionary services

What This Means for Kent Residents

Medway residents can expect council tax increases alongside continued service delivery in essential areas. Whilst the council is investing in support for vulnerable residents, the financial pressures mean that services outside statutory obligations may face ongoing scrutiny. The council’s focus remains on achieving financial sustainability whilst maintaining care standards for those most in need.