Have your say: Budget Consultation 2026
Council safeguards funding for schools in upcoming budget proposals
Friday 09 January 2026
There’s good news for parents, students, and schools in Bridgend County Borough Council’s upcoming budget proposals.
In the proposed budget, the Council has had to make the decision to reduce spend in some areas, therefore £2.4 million of savings have been identified. However, protecting school budgets is firmly at the top of the Council’s priority list.
Despite original plans proposing a reduction to school budgets for the coming year, the council has now confirmed that it's not planning any cuts to school budgets as it launches its annual 'Time to Talk' budget consultation for 2026-27. This commitment comes as the council navigates a challenging financial landscape, which has been supported by better-than-expected draft budget settlement from Welsh Government.
Every year, the council has the difficult task of agreeing a balanced budget to ensure essential services keep running smoothly. This includes everything from schools and education to social care, waste and recycling, keeping our roads in good condition, libraries, leisure facilities, and crucial support for those experiencing homelessness.
For the upcoming 2026/27 financial year, the council is set to receive a 4.6 per cent increase in funding from Welsh Government. This means the revenue budget which totals £550 million, will be fully spent to support the services outlined. While the funding boost has helped reduce the overall budget gap, years of austerity mean that public services are still feeling the pressure.
To help balance the budget, a 4.95% increase in council tax is being proposed. Crucially, these proposals are designed to protect the most vulnerable residents and keep frontline services running effectively.
“The proposed budget prioritises support for those most in need and aims to keep frontline services as intact as possible, ensuring fair funding for schools and social services. This includes a net increase in funding for schools, children’s services, and adult services – with a firm commitment that schools will not face savings targets. Looking ahead, the council is also exploring innovative ways to deliver services more efficiently and resiliently in the future, including the potential use of digital technology and AI to drive improvements.”
The draft budget for 2026/27 will be discussed by the Council’s Cabinet on 13 January 2026.
Have Your Say
The council’s ‘Time to Talk’ budget consultation is now live. The survey seeks your feedback about our proposals and due to a late increase in our funding we have some unallocated money available and welcome your views on where to prioritise this.
Residents are encouraged to participate in the budget consultation and share their views on the proposed funding allocations, council tax options, and efficiency savings.