Save Our Services (SOS!): Portishead Town Council Sets Budget and Precept in Response to North Somerset Council’s Financial Emergency

Portishead Town Council (PTC) has now set its budget and precept in response to the financial crisis facing North Somerset Council (NSC) and the potential impact on local services. Following the budget-setting meeting on Monday 10 February, Chair of Portishead Town Council, Cllr Roger Whitfield, confirmed the Council's commitment to safeguarding vital community services and amenities.

"We live in difficult times," said Cllr Whitfield. "Regardless of where responsibility lies, whether with local government, national policies, or global events, the reality is that we are at risk of losing crucial services. Essential amenities such as our parks and play areas are deteriorating as North Somerset Council works out how to deal with financial pressures, including the rising costs of legally statutory social care."

NSC has publicly acknowledged its ongoing financial difficulties and the need to implement significant cost-saving measures, with further reductions anticipated in the coming years. As a result, many local services and green spaces face an uncertain future.

Recognising this challenge, NSC has sought the support of town councils and local communities to work in partnership and protect services. Portishead Town Council welcomes this opportunity and is committed to playing an active role in reducing the impact on residents by providing high-quality, cost-effective services.

The Uncertain Future of Local Services

While NSC has not yet confirmed where budget cuts will be made, potential consequences include:

• The possible sale of Slade Road Playing Field to developers.

• Further deterioration of The Lake Grounds.

• Reductions in Portishead Library services.

• The closure or decline of local play areas.

• The introduction of the unwanted NSC car parking charges at Roath Road and The Lake Grounds, negatively impacting residents, businesses, volunteers, and sports clubs.

Portishead Town Council's Commitment

In response to this crisis, Portishead Town Council has now set its budget and precept to take necessary action in safeguarding key local services. The Council remains committed to making decisions transparently and in the best interests of the community. Key commitments include:

• No commitments will be made without meaningful consultation with residents.

• Any transferred services will be funded fairly, ensuring that residents only pay for the services they receive. PTC will not invest in propping up long unmanageable contracts that do not deliver value for money.

• NSC accepts that amenities like the Lake Grounds have already been paid for by the people of Portishead and that they are the real owners, with NSC merely the latest custodian of the land.

• Any services or amenities transferred to PTC must first be brought up to an acceptable standard before transfer.

Preparing for the Future

As a direct response to NSC's financial emergency, Portishead Town Council has set its budget and precept accordingly. To take on key services and amenities, a council tax precept increase has been approved. This remains the only tax exclusively allocated to funding services in Portishead. For most households, this will equate to less than £1.00 per week, with many residents paying even less. Those currently exempt from council tax will remain exempt.

"The issue isn't about blame, it's about taking action," added Cllr Whitfield. "If we do nothing, we risk losing our beloved green spaces, community centres, and vital public services. Portishead Town Council is committed to working closely with residents and partners to maintain, and ultimately improve, the services that make our town a great place to live."

A recording of the meeting is available on the Portishead Town Council website at www.portishead.gov.uk/meeting-recordings