PCSO funding and free Sunday parking scrapped in Bristol City Council’s budget plans

Following a string of austerity measures that have seen many services cut to the core, Bristol’s 2018/19 budget proposals are a comparatively low key affair.

But there are still some notable casualties as the council aims to save £34.5m over the year, in its struggle to plug the £108m deficit by April 2023.

Funding for PCSOs has been completely scaled back, discretionary rate relief for charitable and voluntary groups scrapped and contributions to city organisations withdrawn, as the Labour administration continues to tighten its coffers.

Mhairi Threlfall (pictured with one of Bristol’s biobuses) hope to increase the council’s revenue through additional parking charges and reinforcement of bus lanes

There are also plans to boost funds through re-implementation of Sunday parking charges, which were abolished in 2012, as well as in car parks where there is currently a free parking period, and hike council tax by almost five per cent.

The council hopes to rake in additional revenue through enforcement of new bus lanes, bringing unused buildings back to life and increasing fees for weddings, events and entry to council-owned properties and attractions.

Marvin Rees says the budget protects the most vulnerable in the city

Speaking about the proposals at a cabinet meeting on Tuesday, mayor Marvin Rees said: “It’s important to me that in the face of Conservative austerity, we have been able to protect the vast majority of public services, and minimise service reduction, while protecting the most vulnerable in our city

“Government funding has been reduced to unacceptable levels and the Government’s only offer has been to pass on council tax increases, often called the poor tax.

“Our corporate strategy means we will be able to continue to offer hope and aspiration while delivering on our promises to the city.”

Anthony Negus claimed there wasn’t enough time for proper scrutiny of the budget papers

He faced criticism from Lib Dem councillor Anthony Negus for not giving enough time for proper scrutiny of the budget proposals before the cabinet meeting.

Negus said: “I believe this limits the democratic rights of citizen tax payers, and their elected representatives, and our ability to make a beneficial contribution to this important process.”

Craig Cheney, cabinet member for finance, argued that the process has gone through lengthy scrutiny.

The increase in the council’s element of council tax for 2018/19 will amount to an annual increase of £77.28 for Band D properties, or £6.44 per month. The hike is below the maximum of six per cent allowed and includes a two per cent rise in the adult social care precept.

Support for the Bristol Pound will be withdrawn

Funding reductions will hit Destination Bristol, which stands to have its annual contribution of £482,000 from the council scaled back, and financial support for Bristol Pound will cease.

There are also planned pay freezes for senior members of council staff.

Green councillor Martin Fodor raised concerns about the withdrawal of discretionary rate relief and the impact it will have on voluntary groups, not-for-profit organisations and charities.

In reply, Cheney pointed out it is only applicable for organisations with a turnover of £100,000 a year and stressed the difficult financial position the council is in.

The council has already reduced its contribution to funding PCSOs by 50 per cent and is proposing to bring forward the planned withdrawal of all money for the community support officers.

The council will work with Police and Crime Commissioner Sue Mountstevens to find alternative funding sources for PCSOs

It plans to work with the Police and Crime Commissioner’s office to look at how a community safety grant might be redirected to support the continuation of some funding for PCSOs.

The budget recommendations will go to full council for approval on Tuesday, February 20.

Read more: City Council need to close £108m budget gap