Plans to build a 'stronger economy and stronger communities' outlined as Council approves proposed new budget

Members of North East Lincolnshire Council have supported the authority’s Budget, Finance and Business Plan for the financial year starting on April 1, 2025.

A key detail recommended and approved at last night’s Council meeting was a core Council Tax increase of 1.98% and the application of a 2% Adult Social Care precept.

The overall proposed plan reflects the aims and objects set out in the new Council Plan, which will come into effect from April 1. This puts a ‘Stronger Economy’, ‘Stronger Communities’ and ‘Greener Futures’ at the heart of the authority’s vision.

Priorities to achieving this vision are outlined and include:

• The continued transformation of Children’s Services. The plan details how current work is having a ‘positive impact on outcomes for our children and young people, as well as supporting financial sustainability’.

• Again, with a focus on transformation, attention will be put on Adult Social Care where innovative solutions will be explored. This will help to meet an increase in demand and complexity of care.

• Continuing with a ‘commercial approach’ to grow a strong and sustainable economy. It details how major investments, such as the redevelopment of Freshney Place, are progressing and will support the borough at a time of economic challenge.

• A pledge to ensure the capital programme is reviewed regularly to ensure schemes remain viable. This approach, adds the report, will help ensure plans remain ‘affordable, sustainable and prudent’.

An additional recommendation to the proposed budget was approved as part of the process, the result of a recommendation from a recent scrutiny committee, which allocates an additional £150,000 a year for two years to the public health budget to help tackle key health priorities.

During the meeting, “Operation Clean and Green” was put forward as an amendment to the budget, which was supported unanimously. This project will pilot a community initiative for one year to target a range of initiatives, including enhancing street cleaning and the bulky waste collection service.

The Leader of North East Lincolnshire Council, Cllr Philip Jackson, says: “Here in North East Lincolnshire we are entering 2025 with much change in the years ahead as we remain committed to improving our towns, supporting business growth and offering our people more opportunities to live independent, healthier and better lives.”

Cllr Jackson emphasised the importance of this change, adding: “Our Freshney Place regeneration scheme is, in my firm belief, the most important regeneration project we have seen in North East Lincolnshire. It is key to the future of our town centre – underpinning the other regeneration taking place. This includes the new Horizon Youth Zone, the Alexandra Dock housing scheme and the E-Factor Business Hub – as well as securing the future of Freshney Place and the 1,700 local jobs it supports.

“Cleethorpes too, will have its own transformation with our grant-funded projects in Pier Gardens, Market Place and Sea Road taking shape. When complete they will add to our already successful resort – a true jewel in the crown of the East Coast,” added Cllr Jackson.

The Budget confirms how other influences have had a bearing on its content – including the creation of the Greater Lincolnshire Combined County Authority, (GLCCA), further investment in the Humber Freeport, net zero ambitions and environmental responsibilities.