Many popular council services could disappear by 2025 due to a £8bn funding black hole, council leaders have warned.

The Local Government Association (LGA) have published a list of seven discretionary services that councils might need to consider reducing in order to meet their statutory duties.

This includes improving parks and green spaces, council tax support, tackling fly-tipping and graffitti, trading standards, school crossing patrols, rural and post-16 school bus services, and cultural services.

However, it added that cutting back on these services may not be enough to protect statutory services such as adult social care, protecting children and supporting those facing homelessness.

LGA chairman Lord Porter said: ‘If the Government fails to adequately fund local government then it will be our local communities and economies who will suffer the consequences.

’It will be those who rely on vital adult social care to live independent lives, rural bus routes to get out and about, council tax support to ease financial burdens and those who value clean streets, green spaces and roads fit for the purpose…..securing the financial sustainability of councils must be the top priority.’

Laura Sharman (LGA)

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