The council is set to raise issues with ministers about the speed at which alterations to local government funding have been enacted. Following the Fairer Funding Review, the government revised its allocation methods for council money at the close of last year. Bracknell Forest Council estimates that these changes could result in a funding shortfall of £18 million between 2026 and 2029.
The rapid pace of the Fair Funding reforms has presented challenges for some councils in balancing their budgets, particularly amidst rising prices and increased demand for essential local services. Political leaders at Bracknell Forest Council are collaborating with Wokingham Borough Council and other affected authorities to demonstrate to government ministers the impact of changes to grant funding on local residents and communities.
“"We acknowledge that the government’s aim has been to create a fairer and more sustainable way to fund councils. However, as a local authority that is considered more affluent than others, we face losing a considerable sum of money very quickly. This will make it harder for us to continue to provide good quality and much-needed services for our residents."
Cllr Helen Purnell, leader of Bracknell Forest Council, stated: “Like all local authorities, we are seeing more people need our support and the cost of providing services is going up. We are always looking for opportunities to meet needs in different ways, but transformation of core services takes time.”
She added: “I welcome a full discussion with government ministers so we can showcase what this change means for our local people and our borough in the short-term. A positive and constructive discussion about future funding and how we safeguard valuable services for our residents is in everyone’s interest.”
Leaders from Bracknell Forest and Wokingham Borough councils intend to write to the minister responsible for local government funding. They will request that reductions in each council's core grant between 2026/27 and 2028/29 be capped at a maximum of 10 per cent. Furthermore, they plan to invite the minister to discuss their concerns about safeguarding essential services amidst rising demand, increasing costs, and reduced government funding.
