County Council to become more 'sustainable'

Powys County Council is embarking on a new strategy to plan and deliver public services that are stronger, fairer, and more environmentally friendly in the future.

The aim is to ensure that these services can be provided within the council's available budget. Projections indicate that there will be a shortfall of over £20 million in the 2024/25 financial year, which is expected to increase to £44 million or more within the next four years.

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In response to this, the council has introduced 'Sustainable Powys', a proactive approach that seeks to review the current services provided and explore innovative solutions in collaboration with local communities.

Councillor David Thomas, Cabinet Member with portfolio for Sustainable Powys, said:

"Delivering valued local government services is at the heart of all we do. With changing times and economic conditions, we need to be innovative and forward-thinking to sustain quality public services and a council for the future.

"The current economic crisis and rising cost of living is increasing the financial pressure and presenting us with a considerable gap in our available finances. Put simply, this means we can't afford to continue delivering our services in the same way."

"In previous years, the Council has looked to services to become more efficient. This is not sustainable in the long-term and we now need to be more radical and change our approach.

"Sustainable Powys is about working together to design a future, and also building resilience so community-led solutions can help meet local need."

Although the initiative is in its early stages, further information about the work and opportunities for public involvement will be provided in the coming months.