Published on 22nd December 2021

White piggy bank with black flower design

The council has put forward its draft budget proposals for 2022/23 as it continues to lead the recovery of the town from Covid-19, amid increasing case numbers relating to the Omicron variant.

The proposals aim to shape and improve public services and enable strong economic growth, whilst providing a mechanism to ensure the council has available resources to continue to support the recovery of our businesses and communities.

Key proposals within the draft budget papers include:

  • Continued commitment to becoming a net zero carbon council and borough by 2030, providing additional capital finance to deliver infrastructure projects which support the Council’s response to the climate emergency declaration in 2019.
  • A re-alignment of our budgets to reduce our reliance on income from vehicles, reduce our energy usage and allocate resources to meet the increased demand as residents recycle more of their waste.
  • Continued financial commitment to the Golden Valley development to realise the council’s flagship ambition to make Cheltenham the Cyber Capital of the UK. This includes the creation of a national centre of excellence for the cyber sector and wider tech industries that will be an engine-room for long-term inclusive growth for Cheltenham.
  • Continued commitment to fund additional resources and economic recovery investment in the town that promotes inclusive growth and creates a place where everyone can thrive and that benefits both our communities and the environment.

Councillor Peter Jeffries, cabinet member for finance and assets said: “The recovery from the pandemic is certainly not over and continues to be a key focus point for the council.  Cheltenham was one of the first councils to publish a recovery strategy, focused on revitalising and reshaping the economy and ensuring that future growth benefits all of our communities. Everyone is welcome to share their thoughts on the proposals during the period of consultation.’’

The council aims to encourage collaboration across sectors to ensure that culture, hospitality and creativity is interweaved into their economic recovery plans, in particular the ambitious plans for the Golden Valley development.

Residents, businesses and all partners can view the full council report and find details of the budget consultation, online at www.cheltenham.gov.uk/budget.

Comments can be e-mailed to [email protected].

The final budget will be determined by full council in February 2022.

For press enquiries contact [email protected] or call 01242 264288.