On 28 November 2023, the Corporate Overview and Scrutiny Committee will meet to consider budget proposals for the 2024/2025 financial year. The committee papers will detail the council's proposals to realise savings of £18.2million out of its revenue budget.
Speaking after the publication of the committee papers, the Leader of the Council, Cllr Andrew Jefferies explained: "There can be no denying that Thurrock Council is facing some very difficult decisions.
"The task of saving £18.2million in one year represents the largest deficit that the authority is required to save in our history. Although this figure is daunting, we remain committed to funding vital areas such as children's services, housing, education, environment, economic development, communities, and regeneration.
"This underscores our dedication to the welfare and development of our community.
"It is imperative that the decisions we take ensure that we can continue to support the most vulnerable people in our communities and continue to provide high-quality statutory services.
"The budget we are proposing allows us to do exactly this.
"Whilst I fully appreciate that people will look at the headline figure, I would encourage people to look closely at the changes we have made to the council.
"We have a new leadership team and a new way of working. Our primary objective is to ensure we right the wrongs of the past and we secure long term financial sustainability for the council.
"I am absolutely committed to ensuring we continue to make decisions in an open and transparent way, always explaining to the public and our partners why we are making these decisions.
"This is the next step on our journey to a new council that can ensure Thurrock continues to be a brilliant place to live, work and raise a family."