Cumberland Council has successfully reduced its forecasted overspend by nearly £9 million through a rigorous review of services and budgets.

The second-quarter finance report, published ahead of the Council's Executive meeting on December 15, has reflected a considerable reduction in potential overspend from the original forecast of £17.5 million to a current figure of £8.5 million.

This slashing of costs has resulted from a comprehensive set of measures implemented over the past months.

Chief among these have been the significant efforts of the Council officers to identify efficiencies and savings, reduce costs, and manage vacancies effectively.

The Council has also worked towards integrating more permanent staff members, moving away from the interim use of agency staff.

Efforts will continue in quarters three and four to ensure the delivery of these cost-cutting strategies, further identification of savings, and minimisation of Council reserve use.

The Council, like its counterparts throughout the country, is committed to managing escalating costs, particularly in Adult and Children's care services.

The financial pressure is primarily caused by the rising and sustained demands in these services.

Councillor Barbara Cannon, Cumberland Council's executive member for financial planning and assets, said: "Despite the huge financial challenges brought about by a sustained lack of investment in public services, we have demonstrated our commitment to bring about the changes needed to successfully manage the Council’s finances.

"Our primary goal is to ensure every taxpayer's pound is spent wisely and we stand firm in our promise to deliver quality public services for the residents of Cumberland."

Councillor Mark Fryer, leader of Cumberland Council, said: "The Autumn statement by the Chancellor further demonstrated that the sector can expect ongoing financial challenges in the coming years.

"This is why I have signed a letter with other Council Leaders as part of the County Council Network to lobby the Chancellor for much needed additional resources.

"We need to see public service reform in this country and we urgently need a new deal for local government.

"However, we do have a comprehensive plan for Cumberland that I’m confident we can deliver to bring about further change, but recognise that the next few years will be very demanding indeed."

Additional details on the budgeting measures implemented by Cumberland Council can be found on the council's website in the extensive executive committee papers prepped for the December 15, 2023 meeting.