Devon County Council has delivered a balanced budget, made almost £18 million of savings and continued investing in vital services, according to its Unaudited Statement of Accounts 2025/26, which were published ahead of the statutory deadline (Monday 29 June).
The accounts show the Council remained on a stable financial footing despite the rising costs and increasing demand that continue to put pressure on councils across the country.
Over the past year, the Council delivered £17.9 million of savings while protecting frontline services. It also rebuilt its financial reserves, strengthening its ability to deal with future financial pressures and unexpected costs.
The accounts show continued investment in the services residents rely on every day, including highways, Children’s Services and Adult Social Care.
During the year, the Council invested more than £84 million in Devon’s roads and transport network and set aside additional funding for road maintenance, Children’s Social Care and SEND reform work.
The report also highlights improvements in financial management and governance, helping the Council live within its budget while continuing to invest in local services.
The Council continues to face significant challenges around Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), reflecting a national issue affecting councils across England. Devon continues to call for changes to the national funding system to help ensure children and families get the support they need.
Councillor James Buczkowski, Cabinet Member for Finance, said:
“The publication of the Statement of Accounts is about much more than meeting a statutory requirement. It demonstrates how Devon County Council has managed the public’s money over the last year and provides an open and transparent account of our financial performance.
“These accounts show a Council that has strengthened its financial position, delivered a balanced outturn, continued to invest in frontline services and rebuilt financial resilience whilst remaining honest about the significant challenges that still exist, particularly around SEND.
“Strong financial management isn’t an end in itself. It provides the stable foundation that allows us to continue investing in the services residents rely upon, whilst planning responsibly for the future.”
