Residents urged to have their say on Tameside Council budget priorities

Residents across Tameside are being encouraged to have their say on the council’s priorities as part of a public consultation on the 2026/27 budget.

Tameside Council is currently preparing its budget for the next financial year and is inviting local people to help shape its plans. The authority delivers a range of services, from residential and nursing care for older people to street cleaning and bin collections,  with annual spending totalling around £681 million.

Last year, the council was able to reinvest in areas affected by years of austerity, focusing on support for the most vulnerable residents, strengthening street cleaning services, tackling fly-tipping and improving highways infrastructure.

However, the council says its financial position remains challenging. Rising costs and increasing demand for services mean that around £15 million of savings may be required in 2026/27. Proposals will therefore be brought forward to deliver efficiencies while continuing to transform services and protect those most important to residents.

Government funding assumptions in recent years have also been based on councils increasing council tax by 4.99 per cent overall, made up of a 2.99 per cent general increase and a further 2 per cent to help fund adult social care.

Tameside Council Executive Leader, Cllr Eleanor Wills, said: “We are looking to set a balanced budget that is forward-thinking by protecting frontline services and financial sustainability while supporting growth and investment in the borough.

“The Government is introducing fairer funding for councils, which recognises that areas with more challenges need more money, but we must ensure that we are getting value for money and maximise the impact of every pound for our residents in Tameside.”

Executive Member for Finance and Resources, Cllr Hugh Roderick, added: “The Government’s provisional Finance Settlement is the first multi-year settlement in a decade. It’s a significant step towards making local government more sustainable and ensuring funding better reflects local need.

“Thanks to this and our own careful planning, we’re in a stronger position for the years ahead. But we know many services are still under pressure after years of austerity, and we’re determined to keep supporting residents through these challenges.

“That’s why your voice matters. We want to understand your priorities so we can make decisions that reflect what’s most important to you. Please take part in our consultation – your views will help shape the final budget and the future of our borough.”

Residents can share their views through the council’s Big Conversation online or request a paper copy of the consultation at any Tameside library. The consultation is open until 5pm on Wednesday, January 28, 2026. More information on how the council invests its budget is available at: Budget Consultation 2026-27 Survey

Support is also available for residents facing cost-of-living pressures. A council tax support scheme is in place for those on the lowest incomes, while Tameside Welfare Rights can help people maximise their income and check eligibility for benefits. Helping Hand cost-of-living support information is available online 24/7 at Helping Hand Tameside- find help local to you - Tameside MBC

Tameside Council also continues to support its most vulnerable residents through the Household Support Fund. More details can be found at Household Support Fund - Tameside MBC