Wirral Council plans £25m budget cuts amid financial crisis

Wirral Council is facing a significant financial crisis, with plans to cut £25 million from its budget, including the potential loss of up to 200 jobs. An increase in Council Tax by 4.99% is expected to generate an additional £9 million to help address a £34 million shortfall. Councillors have delegated powers to the chief finance officer to implement necessary measures, including redundancies, as the council grapples with its legal obligation to balance its budget or risk declaring bankruptcy. Union representatives have expressed concerns over the cuts, threatening potential strike action if job losses proceed. Meanwhile, Liverpool Council is also struggling, needing to save £32 million to meet ongoing financial pressures, while Norfolk County Council has announced cuts to its homelessness services as part of efforts to address a £44.75 million budget gap. These developments reflect a broader trend of local authorities across the UK facing severe fiscal challenges and making difficult decisions regarding essential services.