NORTHUMBERLAND residents are being encouraged to have their say on county council budget proposals for next year.

Each year, the council must set a balanced budget, which sets out funding for its services as well as its plans for investing. The budget must also take account of new cost-pressures as well as making sure all its services are as efficient as possible.

Alongside feedback on the council’s spending plans, the authority also wants to hear the public's views on the impacts of Covid and what they feel are the most important things the council can do to help recovery.

As part of the consultation, the council is planning an online event where residents can ask the leader of the council questions around its services and the budget.

The consultation will run until January 21 and is due to go before full council in February.

The consultation can be completed at: https://haveyoursay.northumberland.gov.uk/communications/2022-23-budget-consultation/