We have ended the 2024/25 financial year without going over budget, but only by relying on temporary savings and one-off government funding.
A report presented to cabinet today showed that we managed to stay within its £637.5 million budget and ‘balance the books’ despite growing demand for services like social care and support for children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities.
We had been expecting to overspend by nearly £4 million in November but managed to avoid this through a mix of short-term measures, including delaying some projects, not filling vacant jobs, and using a one-off grant from government.
The report also showed that £40 million in planned savings were delivered across council services, though this fell short of the £50 million target.
Councillor James Buczkowski, Cabinet Member for Finance, said:
“This isn’t a moment to celebrate, but it is a moment to be honest. Officers have worked incredibly hard to help balance the books, and that deserves recognition.
“But let’s be clear: this balanced position was only achieved by using temporary fixes. “It’s not a sign that everything is fine. We’ve inherited a fragile financial position, depleted cash balances and a special educational needs deficit now over £169 million.
“The public deserves honesty. We are facing some of the most difficult financial conditions in decades, and we cannot keep doing things the old way. Our new administration is committed to rebuilding trust and making services more sustainable, by working differently, being open about the challenges, and focusing on what really matters to people.”
He added that the Council must now plan ahead carefully and work closely with partners to find better, more sustainable ways to support Devon’s communities.