Lib Dems slam Council budget as “yet another failed budget”

The Liberal Democrat Leader on Birmingham City Council, Acocks Green Councillor Roger Harmer, has slammed the Labour budget at this morning's Cabinet meeting.

Last week, the Birmingham Council Leader published their budget papers along with a declaration that the council is no longer bankrupt.

This year's budget will see a 5% increase, while inflation is at 3.4%. It comes after the council tax has gone up by nearly 18% since April 2024.

Speaking at today's Council Cabinet meeting, Councillor Roger Harmer, said: "

“This is yet another failed budget from Birmingham Labour; they’ve bailed themselves out on the back of local people.

“John Cotton says the city is 'back on track', but the reality for residents is that they have seen their council tax bills soar yet again, while the city streets are in an appalling state. 

“The council has jumped from crisis to crisis, with residents paying the price. Our streets are covered in fly tipping, our roads are crumbling, and our council tax has soared year on year. Having a council not declare bankruptcy is no more than the bare minimum people would expect from any council.

“People will not forget Labour’s legacy. We have an ongoing bin strike, the failed implementation of the Oracle IT system, putting it five times over budget and our streets are less clean and safe.

“We need change at May’s local election, and only the Liberal Democrats will deliver real positive change for people right across Birmingham.”