Decision details

15.1     The Cabinet considered a report by the Chief Executive.

15.2     It was RESOLVED to:

1.             note the updated policy context as set out in paragraph 2 of the report;

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

3.             subject to Council agreeing the establishment of a reserve, agree to receive further reports in November setting out proposals for one-off investments in highways and climate change; and

4.             agree to continue lobbyingfor a sustainable funding regime to meet the needs of the residents of East Sussex.

Reason

15.3     This report confirms the high level of uncertainty within which planning for 2022/23 is taking place. Much is to be determined around national spending allocations and priorities for 2022/23 onwards, the impact of national reforms, and the longer term impact of the coronavirus pandemic.Thanks to the Council’s sound financial management and clear focus on priorities we are in a stable financial position for the current and next financial years. This provides a window of opportunity to invest now in areas that will help prepare us for challenges ahead. Further reports will be brought to Cabinet later in the autumn that set out plans for deploying one off funding on highways and climate change.  Alongside this, the Reconciling Policy, Performance and Resources process will be used to identify any other areas for one off investment. Work will continue throughout the autumn and winter to understand the  detailed funding picture as it emerges and the implications of national policy developments. This analysis will feed into our ongoing business and financial planning. Members will continue to be involved in developing plans through Cabinet, County Council, Scrutiny Committees, and specific engagement sessions throughout the 2021/22 RPPR process.