Gloucestershire County Council has launched a public consultation on its proposed £697.5 million budget for 2026/27, inviting residents to share their views on how the authority should spend its money in the year ahead.
The consultation, approved by the council’s Cabinet on Wednesday 3 December, will run from 4 December 2025 until 9 January 2026. Residents can read the plans and submit feedback online at:
www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/council-and-democracy/budget-consultation-2026-27
The draft budget outlines major investment in road safety, education, social care and environmental services. Among the biggest commitments is £15 million over three years to improve road quality and safety, alongside £2 million to introduce new 20mph zones across the county.
Education also features prominently, with £21.1 million earmarked for the new special school in Gloucester and a further £2.7 million to strengthen Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) support.
In adult social care, the council plans to invest £6.35 million next year towards the construction of three new care homes as part of a wider £57 million programme. Household Waste Recycling Centres will receive £3.9 million in improvements over the next four years.
Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service is set to benefit too, with funding committed for £2.5 million worth of new frontline vehicles, £1.5 million for a new training facility and £1.3 million to upgrade Cinderford Fire Station.
To help deliver these plans, the council is proposing a 2.99% Council Tax increase, alongside a 2% adult social care precept, raising an additional £26.1 million. For a Band D property, this would mean an extra £1.61 per week.
The council also aims to make internal savings of £25.7 million, including reducing reliance on consultants, removing duplication and tackling inefficient practices.
Council Leader Cllr Lisa Spivey urged residents to take part in the consultation.
“Please take a few minutes to tell us what you think of our proposed budget,” she said. “Your views matter. We understand households are under financial pressure, and we don’t take the decision to increase Council Tax lightly.”
She added: “By sharing your views, you help us make better, more informed decisions and shape a fairer future for everyone.”
The council will consider all feedback received before finalising the budget early next year.