Local Government Reform Urged by Councillor Following Budget Process
A councillor from Bridgend, Ross Penhale-Thomas, has called for comprehensive local government reform following the budget setting process for the 2025-26 financial year. The call was made during a meeting held by Bridgend County Borough Council on February 26.
The Llynfi Independent leader highlighted the need for changes to enhance the outlook for local authorities as they deal with cost pressures and escalating demands for services. Penhale-Thomas emphasized the urgency of addressing the challenges faced by local councils, stating that residents had expressed frustration and discontent in recent years.
During the council’s final budget setting process for the upcoming financial year, discussions were held on how to strike a balance in the council’s finances. Cllr Penhale-Thomas outlined the feedback he had received from residents, noting a growing sentiment of disapproval towards local councils being overshadowed by decisions made elsewhere.
Penhale-Thomas advocated for longer-term budget settlements to facilitate smoother financial planning, contrasting with the current year-by-year approach which he described as plagued with chaos and uncertainty. He also called for a review of the Barnett Formula to ensure Wales receives a fair share of UK funding based on needs.
In addition to addressing financial aspects, Penhale-Thomas proposed a fundamental review of local government structures to prevent disparities in service provision, often referred to as “postcode lotteries”. He questioned the rationale behind having 22 local authorities for a population of 3.2 million, along with 1,200 councillors.
The Bridgend county council’s final budget setting process for 2025-26 saw the approval of a revenue budget amounting to £383m, following a 3.9% increase in Welsh Government funding. To cover the financial strains faced by the council, a 4.5% council tax hike was sanctioned alongside various cost-saving measures.
The budget discussions underscored the unprecedented financial pressures faced by local authorities, prompting the need for strategic financial planning and resource allocation. Penhale-Thomas’s call for reform aligns with a broader discourse on enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of local governance structures.
The ongoing dialogue on local government reform reflects a growing recognition of the need for systemic changes to address the evolving challenges faced by local authorities. As communities navigate complex economic landscapes and increasing service demands, the call for reform seeks to ensure sustainable and responsive governance mechanisms.
In conclusion, the advocacy for local government reform by Councillor Penhale-Thomas signals a proactive approach to addressing the intrinsic issues within governance frameworks. The push for comprehensive reform underscores the imperative of creating agile, transparent, and accountable local government systems to better serve and represent communities.