Rother council £1.2million 'funding gap' - 'The simple truth is that we must identify savings'
People in Rother are being urged to have a say on the district council's draft budget plans after it revealed a £1.2million 'funding gap'.
The council says it faces 'significant financial challenges'.
It has launched a public consultation on its 2027/28 draft revenue budget which outlines how it plans to spend £38 million on services.
Council Leader Cllr Doug Oliver said: “Like other councils across the country, Rother faces growing financial pressures, including increasing demand for services, inflation, rising operating costs and higher supplier charges.
“The simple truth is that we must identify savings, make changes to some services and income streams, and explore opportunities to increase revenue.
“Our budget supports the priorities set out in our Council Plan 2025-2029, including creating a thriving local economy, helping residents live well locally, and ensuring the district remains green to the core.
“We’re proposing a range of changes designed to help address the funding gap. These include reviewing some grants, services, fees and charges. While no final decisions have been made, the council wants to understand how the proposals could affect residents, businesses and community organisations before setting its final budget.
"Feedback from residents, businesses and community groups will help us ensure that we make informed decisions about the future of services in Rother. I would encourage everyone to take a few minutes to complete the consultation and tell us what you think."
Rother District Council said it received only nine per cent of people's total council tax bill to fund district council services. The remainder is distributed to East Sussex County Council, Sussex Police, East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service, and town and parish councils.
Full budget proposals and the consultation can be found at https://www.smartsurvey.co.uk/t/RotherBudget27/
The consultation ends on December 16.