DONCASTER Council has backed budget plans which will see over 300 jobs lost, council rents rising, and a children’s centre closed.
The authority is making £25.7million worth of savings from its revenue budget this year, which pays for day-to-day items to run services, such as staffing and supplies.
Council tax was frozen, but 308 jobs will go.
Mayor Peter Davies said: “Despite this being the hardest budget I have had to make as we come to terms with Government’s deficit reduction plans, I have pulled a robust budget together which protects crucial front line services and our most vulnerable residents. I am particularly proud that we have protected services for those with moderate care needs where other authorities have cut them.
“This is the third year in a row I have frozen council tax and Doncaster now has the fifth lowest council tax of all the Metropolitan Boroughs and Unitary Councils. I am proud of this achievement as it helps local residents during a time when they need it most.
“We do have to make significant budget savings next year but I am pleased that half of the savings will come from our continued work to tackle waste and improving efficiency.
“We will continue to support important areas of the council and I am delighted that we are reinvesting £3.8million into our Children’s Services. I have also insisted that there will be a 10 pence cut in off-street car parking charges and no increase in on street car parking charges as I continue to support measures that will have a positive impact for our economy by encouraging more people to visit our town centres.
“These are tough times and with this period of austerity expected to last until at least the end of the decade, I was determined to provide a fair and balanced budget that protects the best interests of Doncaster and its residents. I feel we have achieved just that.”
Council also approved a council house rents rise across Doncaster will rise in line with Government guidance from April 1. They will rise by £3.68 a week to £66.46.
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