Published: January 10, 2025 | Updated: 10th January 2025
Dorset Council has set out proposals for a £416 million budget in 2025/26 – up £39 million on last year.
Among the allocations are £14.5 million for adult social care and housing, £1.5 million for children’s services and £4 million for transport, highways and planning services.
The council outlined cost-saving measures – including new service grants, reducing third-party spending and slimming down on staff – to make up the £83.4 million required for social care this coming year.
It’s also proposed a three per cent increase in council tax.
Cllr Simon Clifford, cabinet member for finance and capital strategy, said: “We’re making substantial investments in essential services.
“Since taking leadership of the council last May, we’ve prioritised housing, economic growth, supporting communities and addressing the climate and nature crisis.
“It continues to be a tough financial climate for councils with inflation, the new requirement to pay higher employee national insurance costs, and the ever-increasing need for social care services – particularly with our growing older population in Dorset.
“Despite these national financial challenges, we’re making tough decisions to secure a strong financial future for Dorset Council and deliver the services our residents need most.”
The proposed budget will be reviewed shortly by scrutiny committees and the cabinet before going to the full council in February for final approval.
