Stoke-on-Trent City Council has set out a draft budget for 2026–27 that prioritises support for vulnerable residents while continuing investment in frontline services and local infrastructure.
The updated Medium Term Financial Strategy and council tax proposals were presented to the council’s cabinet on Tuesday 17 February, following public consultation and the publication of the government’s Final Finance Settlement on 9 February.
The settlement includes adjustments to the national funding formula following representations made by the council and local MPs. This will provide an additional £13.3 million over three years.
Responding directly to residents’ priorities, the draft budget also includes a further package of neighbourhood improvements:
- £300,000 for accelerated gully cleaning to strengthen flood prevention work
- £1.25 million to upgrade and improve playgrounds
- £5 million for pothole and road surface repairs – boosting the spring repair programme when permanent fixes can be carried out more effectively than during wet, winter weather
The updated budget includes significant investment in Children’s Social Care, Adults Social Care, homelessness services and special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) support, reflecting rising demand and the need to safeguard essential provision.
The council is also set to continue to invest through its capital programme to preserve local heritage and improve the city’s infrastructure, supporting long-term regeneration and resilience.
The proposals build on previous commitments and form part of a wider programme to improve local environments and community pride.
Following the issuing of the final Government financial settlement, the Council has taken the opportunity to update its analysis of forward pressures in Children’s and Adults’ Social Care for 2026-27. To meet these rising pressures, the Cabinet has approved the use of some of the additional funding provided by the Government as well as release of part of the council’s central risk budget – money set aside to help meet such pressures.
The proposals also include:
- The continued retention of Dimensions café, with an amended operating model following public feedback
- Funding for the Youth Skills YES Programme, supported by improved settlement resources after the loss of UKSPF
- The application of capital receipts – money from the sale of buildings or land - for revenue transformation, possible under the extension of national flexibilities until 2030.
Councillor Jane Ashworth, leader of Stoke-on-Trent City Council, said: “Following the announcement of the Final Finance Settlement on 9 February, we now have greater clarity on our national funding position.
“Our priority is to support the most vulnerable, protect frontline services and invest in the things that matter to our residents.
“The government has listened to our concerns and taken steps to improve the settlement, but the financial challenges remain significant.
“This budget takes a responsible and balanced approach that puts residents first while seeking to ensure we remain financially sustainable.”
The proposals will be considered at a full council meeting on 26 February.
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