Here's how to have your say on Sheffield council budget plans

Councillors say that the past year has been tough because of £92m extra spending needed to cope the pandemic.

They say their focus is on “protecting our communities and supporting recovery, detailing where we will allocate funding and how we will attempt to close the gap on more than £60 million of overspend from this unprecedented year”.

They say a proposed increase in council tax of 4.99% would cost most households around £1.04 more per week and will raise an extra £11m in revenue.

Closing date is January 19.

Coun Terry Fox, cabinet member for finance, resources and governance at Sheffield City Council, said: “Covid-19 has placed unprecedented financial pressure on all services, the rising costs are extremely difficult to manage and without further support from Government the position is very challenging.

“Responding to the impact of Covid-19 has left us with a budget gap of more than £60 million, a gap that we must now plan how to reduce.

"We've set out our budget proposals for the coming financial year, but we want the people of Sheffield to be involved in these decisions so that we can be confident their needs are represented.

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"It's really important that we hear from people in all areas of the city, from all backgrounds, of all ages. We want to know what is important to you and whether you have other ideas on how we can continue providing essential services while moving the city forward.

“I want to reassure people that protecting the most vulnerable and supporting strong recovery and growth for the city remains our priority. We will always manage Sheffield’s financial position rigorously to make sure we are prepared, and we will continue to fight for fair allocation of funding from the Government.”

Go to sheffield.citizenspace.com and look for Budget Consultation 2021/22.

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a digital subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor.