Council plans to use reserves to balance budget

Council tax bills in East Sussex are set to rise by 4.9%, with the county council planning to use £12m from its reserves to balance its books for the coming year.

Savings of £13.5m have also been found, according to East Sussex County Council.

A report to be considered by cabinet members on 28 January describes the current situation as the "most difficult set of financial circumstances the council has ever experienced".

The authority will meet to set its 2025/26 budget on 11 February.

The report also highlights East Sussex's ageing population, with more than a quarter of those living in the county over the age of 65, and many having social care needs.

Of the council tax increase, which will put an extra £1.70 a week on a Band D property, 2% will be ringfenced to pay for social care.

The report also warns that, without more money from central government, the council may have to approach Westminster for exceptional financial support.

The government said it has given local authorities a real-term increase of 3.5% for the coming financial year, with a £69bn investment.

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