Brent Council Proposes Radical Changes to Bridge Financial Gap
Brent Council has unveiled a draft budget proposal for the next financial year that relies on artificial intelligence (AI) and the sale of empty buildings to help close a projected £10 million budget shortfall. The local authority states these measures are essential to protect frontline services, but opposition councillors have labelled the plans as unrealistic.
The Financial Pressure and Council Tax Increase
The council is set to raise council tax by the maximum allowable amount of 4.99 per cent. This comprises a general increase of approximately 3% and a further 2% specifically for the adult social care precept. Despite this increase, which is expected to generate £9.1 million, a significant financial gap remains.
Councillor Mili Patel, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Finance and Resources, described a "perfect storm" of high inflation and the legacy of austerity. She highlighted that a surge in demand for temporary accommodation, Adult Social Care, and costly children's placements has placed "immense strain on local services."
Behind-the-Scenes Savings and Technological Shift
To find the necessary £10.4 million in savings, the council is proposing a series of operational changes. A key element involves harnessing technology like AI to redesign services, aiming to make it easier for residents to access support online. Other strategies include forming partnerships with local charities, negotiating better deals with suppliers, using data more effectively, and generating income from empty council properties through rental or sale.
Council Leader, Cllr Muhammed Butt, emphasised that the council is "accelerating our programme to transform the way we work" to protect essential services. He stated that most of the financial plan would come from working "more efficiently and effectively."
Political Reactions and Public Consultation
The proposals have met with scepticism from opposition parties. The leader of the Brent Liberal Democrats, Cllr Paul Lorber, criticised the Labour leadership, calling the AI and efficiency ideas "pie in the sky." He argued that the solution lies with the national government providing adequate funding for homelessness and social care.
The Brent Green Party suggested a wealth tax and greater scrutiny of council spending. In response, Cllr Patel defended the council's pragmatic approach, stating that Labour is the only party whose "sums have to actually add up."
Residents of Brent have the opportunity to share their views on the draft budget proposals until January 30. The final budget is scheduled to be ratified in February 2025, shortly before the local elections.
