Decision details

To consider an update on the reconciling policy, performance and resources process for 2024/25, the next steps and the medium term financial plan

26.1     The Cabinet considered a report by the Chief Executive.

26.2     The Cabinet RESOLVED to:

   1)         note the updated policy context as set out in paragraph 2;

2)         note the updated Medium Term Financial Plan as set out in paragraph 3 and appendix 1;

3)            note the reserves summary set out in paragraph 3;

4)            note the capital programme update as set out in paragraph 4 and appendix 2; and

5)            agree to continuelobbying for sustainable funding to meet the needs of the residents of East Sussex.

Reason

26.3     In June Cabinet considered the State of the County report, a key milestone in the Council’s Reconciling Policy, Performance and Resources (RPPR) process, our integrated business and financial planning cycle. The report set out the updated demographic, economic and service evidence base; the national and local policy context; and updates on our medium term financial planning position and capital programme. It set out our latest understanding of how we would need to continue to respond to the broad and evolving range of policy, demographic and financial drivers which influence the outlook for the Council, both in the short and longer-term.

26.4     This report highlights the importance of the services the Council provides for the county, the positive achievements we have to build upon, and the strength of our robust planning processes. It also outlines the increased level of uncertainty within which planning for 2024/25 is taking place and the growing pressure on services. Much is to be determined around national spending allocations and priorities for 2024/25 onwards, the impact of national reforms, and the medium to longer term impact of the increases in demand and cost seen already this year.