Balanced budget approved for East Cambridgeshire

Members at East Cambridgeshire District Council have voted for a Council Tax freeze as part of the balanced budget for 2015/16.

Councillors at Full Council heard how the ongoing success of the District Council’s medium term financial strategy and the restructure of the authority last year had helped to strengthen the organisation’s budget.

As part of the budget, the Council is freezing its proportion of the council tax for the second year in a row in order to qualify for the Government’s Council Tax Freeze Grant.

Councillor James Palmer, Leader of East Cambridgeshire District Council, said: “As a local authority we have a duty to our residents to deliver the services they need but not at any cost. Last year, we were proud to freeze our part of the Council Tax bill and this year our strong financial position allows us to again freeze our portion of the Council tax. This is hugely significant to many of our residents who, despite the economic upturn, still count the pennies to make sure they can pay their bills.

“By restructuring our authority last year, we have created an organisation which is better equipped to deliver for people, communities and businesses. This involved some difficult decisions but we believe it sets the authority on a stronger course for the future. Our strength comes from our willingness to innovate and change, ensuring the big projects and vital services are delivered in East Cambridgeshire. There will no doubt be many challenges to come in the future but with our balanced budget and strong financial position, we know we are ready to meet them.”