Finance chiefs at Staffordshire County Council are calling on the Government to recognise the realities faced by local authorities and provide the necessary resources to tackle long-standing issues. The council highlights the escalating costs associated with protecting vulnerable children and supporting those with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) as key drivers of the growing funding gap.
Councillor Sean Bagguley, the council's cabinet member for Finance and Resources, stated that central government funding significantly impacts county council income. He emphasised the need for a substantial and sustained increase in highways maintenance funding, reflecting the demands placed on roads and aging structures like bridges, which are now handling heavier loads than originally designed.
“"Not only do we need a significant and sustained increase in highways maintenance funding that reflects the needs of Staffordshire and other counties like it, but there also need to be a long-term funding solution for repairing aging structures, such as bridges, which are now carrying more. and heavier vehicles than originally intended."
The council is also actively seeking substantial investment to expand post-16 education and employment support in areas facing the greatest pressures. Furthermore, bids have been submitted for funding aimed at stimulating economic growth through improvements to key transport corridors, including the A50, M6 Junction 15, and A5/M42 Junction 10.
“"Staffordshire is a great county with a history of innovation and delivery. With the right resources to promote business and longer-term certainty, we can continue investing in essential services, supporting economic expansion and creating opportunities for residents and businesses."
