Congleton Town Council is urging residents to take part in a short survey on the future of local services, as Cheshire East Council (CEC) faces unprecedented financial pressures that will directly affect Congleton.
Local authorities across the country are under strain, and CEC is no exception. Despite managing an annual budget of £427 million, nearly 70% is legally committed to adult and children’s social care, leaving limited funds for essential neighbourhood services. Even after receiving £25.3 million in Exceptional Financial Support from the Government, CEC still forecasts a £3.1 million shortfall by March 2026, rising to £33 million the following year due to inflation, rising costs, and increased demand.
Residents are already seeing the impact: fewer road and pavement repairs, reduced weeding, infrequent gulley emptying, and the transfer or closure of public toilets. These concerns have also been raised in Congleton’s own community consultations.
Congleton Town Council’s Chief Officer, David McGifford said: “We know residents expect high standards from their local services, and we want to protect what makes Congleton such a great place to live. But with Cheshire East Council under such pressure, more responsibility is likely to fall to town and parish councils. We need local people to tell us what matters most before any decisions are made.”
As part of preparations for the 2026/27 budget, Congleton Town Council is consulting on whether it should take on additional services, including ownership of public toilets at the Bus Station, Market Area and Congleton Park, maintaining additional green spaces, extra grass cutting, and town centre maintenance. Other possibilities under consideration include improved youth facilities, supporting additional local bus links and potentially taking responsibility for Congleton Market.
The town council is primarily funded through the Council Tax Precept, collected by CEC. For the town council to maintain its current services in the face of rising costs, the precept will need to increase. If additional services are devolved to the town council, a larger precept increase would be required to deliver them effectively.
Chief Officer David McGifford added: “We want to be open with residents, taking on more services locally is possible, but it will require additional funding. That’s why it’s so important that people tell us which services they value most.”
Residents are encouraged to complete the survey by 6 December. It takes only a few minutes and will help shape local priorities for years to come. Complete the survey here: www.surveymonkey.com/r/CTCServices
