Tax rise, job cuts and asset sales on table at council

COUNCIL tax rise, job cuts and a sale of local authority assets in North Tyneside may be required to cope with a cash shortfall totalling more than £30m.

- DANIEL HOLLAND Local Democracy Reporter

Bosses at North Tyneside Council have warned that they are faced with a major financial challenge next year due to “unprecedented” pressures, particularly in demand for social care services and the cost of supporting looked-after children.

Initial proposals to deal with a predicted deficit of £31.7m in 2026/27 are due to be presented to council-lors later this month. They include another council tax rise of 4.99%, including a 2% adult social care precept, the maximum increase allowed without the need for a referendum.

A report published ahead of a meeting of the authority's Labour-run cabinet also warns that more redundancies may be needed at the council, following the announcement of plans to slash 200 jobs this time last year.