The District Councils’ Network has responded to the Government’s Fair Funding Review 2.0 consultation.
We support the aim of better matching councils’ resources to their needs. But we are concerned the proposed changes will mean real-terms spending cuts for many DCN members. This would be counterproductive for the millions of residents and businesses we serve. All DCN member councils must be properly funded to continue providing the vital frontline, place-based and preventative services that play a crucial role in driving growth and reducing demand on the NHS and wider public sector.
Instead, we are calling for:
- Stronger transitional protection for the councils facing the biggest funding cuts.
- New Homes Bonus to be kept until an alternative way is found to incentivise councils to build the many new homes our places need.
- Phased approach to resetting the business rates baseline.
- A funding formula for Temporary Accommodation that gives districts their fair share.
- Dedicated funding for flood protection and costal defences in the areas facing the greatest risks.
- Full and transparent funding for the cost of operating weekly food waste collections.
- Much greater financial flexibility and fiscal devolution for councils so local communities can make democratic decisions about how money is spent in their area.
You can read our full response here.
