Residents across Kent are being urged to have their say on how local libraries, roads, and social care are funded, as Kent County Council (KCC) battles a projected £120 million funding gap. A ten-week public consultation has been launched, giving coastal communities a direct chance to influence how the council spends its £2.8 billion budget for the 2027/28 financial year.
Vital Services at Risk
With vital local services hanging in the balance – including home-to-school transport, waste recycling centres, public health, and highway maintenance across the district – the council says “difficult decisions” are inevitable. The authority is facing unprecedented financial strain due to the skyrocketing cost of adults’ and children’s social care, which now swallows up a massive two-thirds of its entire budget.
Central Grants Fall Short
Local council chiefs warn that central government grants have failed to keep pace with these costs. As a result, the council must find a balance through savings, generating new income, or raising council tax for residents. County council leaders have revealed that even if council tax is increased next year, they will still need to find significant savings to legally balance the books.
Council Leader's Statement
Councillor Brian Collins, the council’s deputy leader and cabinet member for finance, said: “Setting the council’s budget has never been more challenging. Demand for essential services continues to rise, while costs are increasing faster than our income. KCC is facing a projected funding gap of £100-£120 million by 2027/28 if we are to avoid increasing council tax. To help manage this, we are reducing debt – repaying £142 million since last year to cut interest costs – and tightly managing our borrowing. We must continue to find savings, which will require difficult decisions. Before doing so, it’s vital we hear from our residents about what is most important to you.”
Next Steps
The feedback gathered from local residents will be presented to county councillors at cabinet committee meetings later this year. The final budget proposals will be finalised in February. The consultation will run until September 7. Residents can participate online at www.kent.gov.uk/budget or request a physical copy by emailing alternativeformats@kent.gov.uk or calling 03000 421553.
