Fears over job cuts as council reviews finances

Jobs could be cut at a borough council in Surrey as it faces "significant financial challenges".

Surrey Heath Borough Council said it would be reviewing its "staffing structure" and would potentially sell off some of its assets to find millions of pounds worth of savings.

The council, which is due to set its annual budget for 2025-2026, is also proposing a 2.99% increase in its share of council tax from April.

Over a four year period, plans include savings of up to £2.14m, with up to £21.67m expected to be taken from reserves.

Council leader Shaun Macdonald, said: "As a council we are facing significant financial challenges due to the combination of high inflation and interest rates, decreased central government funding and higher demand for services.

"Close budget monitoring is key, and strong fiscal controls in place across the council will ensure that taxpayer's money is used effectively."

He added the council would "continue to evolve the council's operations, prioritising cost reduction, income generation, and optimising its property assets to work towards long-term financial sustainability".

Budget papers said there are services which the authority is required to provide by law, but that there would be a review of others.

"Much of what is provided is discretionary, in that it is a service that is not required to be provided under the statutory remit of the council," they said.

The council said it has also "identified a number of its capital assets" that it could "dispose of".

Previously the council said it is having to find an additional £4m a year to cover interest payments on loans for property investments, including a shopping centre and the former House of Fraser store in Camberley.

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