Wirral Council Faces 25 Million Pound Cuts, Job Losses and Closures

Wirral Council shared their service cut plans. They need to cut over £25 million by April. The council had kept quiet about this until now. They even asked the government for up to £40 million to help balance their finances. The full effect on services is now clear, as papers came out before a February 19, 2025 meeting.

Reports show a big budget gap next year that could be over £34 million. The council must balance its budget legally, or face serious consequences like bankruptcy. They already have a £19.5 million overspend this year.

Councilors may give power to Matthew Bennett, the chief finance officer, so he can “do anything necessary” to balance funds. Council officers can then handle staffing changes, including potential redundancy notices. The public can share their thoughts on agreed cuts.

Council tax could rise by 4.99%, which will raise £9.225 million for the council. The total budget next year will be £444.7 million, with two percent of the tax increase going to adult social care.

Matthew Bennett stated the council could balance things, but urgent government help is needed. Wirral faces “severe financial challenges,” and backup funds are almost gone. The council needs funds for key changes.

About 100 to 200 jobs might be lost, mainly through vacant job cuts. Voluntary redundancy is another option, and some people may move within the council. Compulsory redundancies are also possible, but they will try to avoid forced redundancies if possible, working with trade unions.

The council did not say how many libraries may close, but they will revise locations and enhance digital services to save £250,000 over two years. The goal is borough-wide service using available assets, with more online resources available.

Councilors are worried about library locations and want to combine libraries with other services. They also want community asset transfers, and they want more community partner libraries. They will consider outsourcing the service to other groups over five years.

Reviewing leisure options will save £3 million. They will look at how to deliver the service and plan to invest in facilities. The goal is better outcomes from leisure provisions.

Selling seven buildings will save money, including buildings in Birkenhead, saving £500,000. Closing Birkenhead Town Hall completely saves another £100,000, with services moving to Wallasey.

The council will increase fees and charges and review adult social care. Recovering debt will save £500,000 over two years. A final budget vote is due March 3, and the official deadline is March 11.