The Welsh Local Government Association (WLGA) has today called on the UK Government to reconsider its budget allocations to address the pressing needs of communities across Wales, expressing alarm over the lack of funding for public spending or investment. 

Echoing similar calls by the Welsh Government, the WLGA maintains that the Chancellor's primary focus should be on prioritising investments in essential public services that are relied upon by all of us. 

Cllr Anthony Hunt, WLGA Finance Spokesperson said: 

“We are deeply concerned about the implications of the Spring Budget for communities across Wales. 

“The Chancellor talks about wasteful spending, but the reality is councils are on their knees thanks to his Government, with discretionary spending cut by up to 40% after adjusting for inflation. The local public services councils provide are experiencing unprecedented financial pressures and councils are considering all potential avenues to balance budgets. While they may manage in the short term, there is serious concern regarding the survival of vital local services. Local authorities are expected to deliver more with less funding, so the strain on councils cannot be overstated. 

“Lack of investment in local government will only produce poorer outcomes for communities and will impact on councils’ ability to fund schools and social care, build social housing and invest in the transition to net zero. 

“Thanks to this Budget, Welsh communities will be experiencing rises in Council Tax but can expect to see less for their money. This could have a devastating effect on individuals, families, and communities throughout Wales as this adds to pressures already felt due to the cost-of-living crisis and high inflation rates. The services that are the basis of the fabric of society are straining. 

“The NHS and social care need to be funded on an equal basis as they are both part of the same system and have similar pressures. Despite additional funds announced for NHS, social care remains severely underfunded and overlooked, exacerbating existing pressures on local authorities as well as increasing the burden on the health service.”