Imagine a local council grappling with a staggering budget shortfall while still striving to keep your community thriving – that's the urgent reality unfolding in Bracknell Forest as they roll out their draft budget for 2026 to 2027. But here's where it gets controversial: are the proposed cuts fair, or is this a sign of deeper funding woes that could reshape how we all live and pay? Dive in to discover the details and why your voice matters more than ever.
Your Opinion Counts: Public Input on the Proposed Budget
Every single year, the council is tasked with crafting a balanced budget that outlines exactly where they'll allocate funds and implement savings – all while considering the council tax contributions from local residents like you.
Our financial plan divides into two main components: the revenue budget, which handles everyday operational costs, and the capital budget, geared toward long-term investments. To put it simply for beginners, the revenue budget covers routine expenses such as social care services, trash collection, and street lighting, ensuring the day-to-day wheels of the community keep turning. On the flip side, the capital budget focuses on building or upgrading lasting assets, like new roads, bridges, or maintaining existing infrastructure – think of it as planting seeds for future growth.
Looking ahead to 2026 through 2027, the council anticipates expenditures of:
- Approximately £136.5 million for the revenue budget
- Around £12.3 million for the capital budget
We're eager to gather your feedback on this draft budget proposal for the upcoming year. Before jumping into the consultation, take a moment to explore the additional details below. We'll break down the distinctions between the revenue and capital budgets more thoroughly and outline our intended uses for this draft.
Share Your Thoughts on the 2026 to 2027 Draft Budget (https://consult.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/kpse/event/2A92E69F-7F88-48E6-83D2-EA807585CDBA)
The consultation period is open from December 17th until January 27th, giving you plenty of time to weigh in.
In-Person Feedback Opportunities
If you prefer face-to-face discussions, join us at one of these drop-in sessions for casual input:
- Friday, December 19th, from 11am to 3pm at The Lexicon community cart (Braccan Walk South)
- Wednesday, January 7th, from 10am to midday at Crowthorne High Street (near Costa)
- Friday, January 9th, from 10am to midday at Tesco Warfield
- Thursday, January 15th, from 6pm to 8pm at Bracknell Leisure Centre
Addressing the Budget Shortfall
A budget gap essentially represents the disparity between projected spending and expected income. For the 2026 to 2027 period, we're projecting a shortfall of about £10.1 million, driven by several factors:
- Growing demands for essential services, including support for special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) as well as social care
- Escalating costs fueled by inflation
- Prolonged underfunding from the national government
- An upcoming reassessment of funding from central authorities, known as the Fairer Funding Review 2.0 (https://www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/news/2025/08/call-major-rethink-proposed-changes-local-government-funding), which means our allocated grants won't increase as much as required
As a result, we're forced to scale back or eliminate certain non-essential services, trim staffing expenses, renegotiate agreements, and rethink our operational approaches moving forward. We'll also dip into our reserves to ensure the budget remains balanced. And this is the part most people miss: while we're not declaring bankruptcy, these tough choices highlight a looming challenge for sustainable financial health.
But here's where it gets controversial – some argue that relying on reserves to plug gaps might delay inevitable reforms, potentially leading to bigger problems down the line. What do you think: is this a prudent stopgap, or a band-aid on a systemic issue?
The detailed draft budget documents (https://democratic.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/ieListDocuments.aspx?CId=1052&MId=14429&Ver=4) provide a comprehensive look at proposed expenditures and savings for both revenue and capital budgets in 2026 to 2027, plus thematic overviews for the subsequent years of 2027 to 2028 and 2028 to 2029.
Breaking Down the Council's Budget
For a visual and straightforward explanation, check out this video on our budget – it mirrors the info you'll find here on the page.
Delving into the Revenue Budget
The revenue budget handles ongoing daily expenses, encompassing:
- Operating key local services such as social care, waste management, housing and homelessness assistance, community safety, libraries, recreational facilities, parks, public health initiatives, school enrollments, pothole fixes, and street illumination
- Subsidies for community organizations, nonprofits, and collaborative partners (for instance, support for places like South Hill Park, Involve, and Citizens Advice)
- Payments for debts and interest on any loans or borrowings
It also covers employee salaries, office overheads, and utility payments.
Proposed Reductions and Eliminations in the Revenue Budget for 2026 to 2027
Pending thorough impact assessments, some of the more significant suggestions include:
- Generating savings of about £248,000 by discontinuing the 299, 598, and 151/151A bus routes – these lines are costly to operate yet see low passenger turnout, with some fares exceeding £16 per single journey
- Achieving approximately £380,000 in savings by postponing the curbside glass collection program to start in March 2027 rather than autumn 2026
- Exploring alternative funding for climate initiatives through grants and private investments – this could trim around £50,000 for the 2026 to 2027 year
- Realizing £275,000 in savings by reevaluating the Better Care Fund Grant alongside NHS partners to emphasize intermediate care and rehabilitation services
Additionally, numerous minor efficiencies are planned, such as ceasing professional memberships, adjusting contracts, and cutting cleaning budgets.
Savings will also stem from organizational changes and efficiencies – primarily by not filling vacant positions as staff depart or retire, rather than resorting to layoffs.
Exploring the Capital Budget
Capital expenditures target initiatives that develop or enhance permanent assets, such as structures, roads, bridges, or pathways. Funding typically comes from government grants, loans, proceeds from asset sales, and contributions from property developers.
Proposed Capital Investments for 2026 to 2027
The draft capital budget allocates funds to council-owned buildings and certain school facilities. Other highlighted projects for 2026 to 2027 encompass:
- Continuing the £2.7 million commitment to upgrading and preserving roadways (encompassing roads, sidewalks, drainage systems, bridges, and bike paths)
- A potential £95,000 allocation for enhancing playgrounds
- Over £650,000 toward local recreational sites, such as the running track at Bracknell Leisure Centre and upkeep for Coral Reef Waterworld and Downshire Golf Course
- £50,000 for expanding Bracknell Day Services to provide more room and assistance for adults with learning disabilities
Where Does the Council's Funding Originate?
The council's finances are sourced from a mix of:
- Allocations from the national government (often called grant funding)
- Council Tax payments
- Business rates
- Fees from property developers
- Earnings from charges, fees, and sponsorships
- Loans and borrowings
Emergency Funds (Reserves)
We maintain savings for unforeseen circumstances, commonly known as reserves. These can bridge budget deficits when needed.
At present, £23 million of our reserves is earmarked for addressing the shortfall in SEND funding. Furthermore, we hold an additional £10 million in reserves that could bolster the budget. We anticipate utilizing a significant portion of these to balance the 2026 to 2027 finances.
While not facing insolvency, the council must exercise careful financial stewardship, which presents ongoing challenges. We've managed our resources responsibly for years, adapting to funding hurdles, yet we're now confronting a progressively tougher landscape, necessitating difficult decisions alongside the depletion of some reserves.
How Your Council Tax is Utilized
Council Tax primarily funds the revenue budget, covering the routine costs of delivering services. For more insights into 2025 to 2026 spending, visit this link (https://www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/council-tax/how-your-money-spent-2025-2026).
The infographic and chart below illustrate the breakdown of every pound from council tax for 2025 to 2026, which closely mirrors expectations for 2026 to 2027.
Allocation of Your £1 in Council Tax
Roadway Upkeep
This category includes routine maintenance like fixing potholes and minor repairs. Note that large-scale developments, such as constructing new roads, resurfacing projects, or pedestrian crossings, fall under the capital budget, supported by annual government highway funding.
Council Tax Projections for 2026 to 2027
The draft budget doesn't specify the exact council tax level for next year. However, considering the national government's assumptions about tax increases when calculating grants, combined with our substantial deficit, a rise seems probable.
Any adjustments, including the extent of the increase, will be determined by council members in February 2026.
Voices from Our Community
To bring this to life, here are heartfelt stories from residents who benefit from council services every day. These real experiences underscore why the budget matters.
Peter, 72 – Retired
At 72, I'm discovering fresh ways to bond with my loved ones. The council's complimentary tech workshops taught me video chatting with my grandson. Weekends often mean cheering him on at Farley Wood pitches, where the council maintains free parking and amenities.
Swimming remains my go-to for staying energetic. The senior swim sessions at Bracknell Leisure Centre make it enjoyable and accessible. Living in an area rich with sports and leisure options truly supports my health and social ties.
Taylor, 19 – Carer
Caring for my grandad, who raised me, is demanding since his dementia and severe arthritis diagnoses last year. I work night shifts, so the adult social care team's installation of a sensor alarm at home, monitored by Forestcare's 24/7 service, provides peace of mind. I'm also consulting the council's mental health support for both of us, including respite care and financial aid.
We attend council-backed dementia groups weekly – he enjoys the knitting sessions, and I value the caregiver meetups. Having a supportive community that gets our situation means the world.
The Martinez Family
Relocating from London to Bracknell Forest a few years back, we sought help from the school admissions office to switch our daughter Tia's elementary school. Three years on, she's advancing to Year 7. The online system and secondary education guide simplified everything.
We traded London's hustle for greenery but kept easy access to shops and eateries. Tia safely meets friends after school and participates in activities like swimming and gymnastics.
Sofia, 35 – Part-Time Teaching Assistant
2025 was a rollercoaster – redundancy hit hard until a friend mentioned the council's job club at the Open Learning Centre. They polished my resume and interview skills, landing me a part-time teaching role. I've since enrolled in their 'working in schools' program to boost my abilities.
For childcare while working, I used the council's family info service to claim funding and find a preschool for my son Ethan, who has special needs. The additional needs hub offers valuable guidance too.
Minah, 23 – Trainee Doctor
As an aspiring NHS physician, I commute daily to the Royal Berkshire Hospital via Bracknell station. The council's clean streets and well-lit underpasses enhance my evening walks.
My mom recently moved here, and she's enamored with The Lexicon, Bracknell Library, the Open Learning Centre, and The Look Out. Enrolled in their ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) classes through adult learning services, she's gained confidence and reduced reliance on translators. World Café gatherings at Time Square aid her integration, friendships, and job search.
Adrian, 41 – Delivery Driver
A lifelong Sandhurst resident, my delivery job benefits from the council's road maintenance efforts. Nine months ago, spotting clogged drains, I easily reported it online.
Building a single-story extension required planning and building control approvals. The council's prompt team ensured safety and compliance.
Alex, 20 – Full-Time Student in Shared Housing
As a student, I'm exempt from council tax – one less worry amid studies. In a house of multiple occupation (HMO), the licensing team oversees landlord management and safety, giving me security. This extends to monitored taxis from pubs.
Off-study time, I hit the gym at Bracknell Leisure Centre – spotless and equipped. Dad's visits often include affordable rounds at Downshire Golf Complex.
Chloe, 29 – Single Mom to 3-Year-Old Emily
On a modest income, I receive a council tax reduction, stretching my budget for basics. When rent arrears arose, the housing team offered advice to stay housed.
I get 30 hours of free childcare weekly, enabling part-time work without hefty fees. Emily's minder attends council early years training, adding reassurance.
The Patel Family: Amit, 45; Priya, 43; Maya, 13; Rohan, 7
Council services seamlessly support us – from smooth school enrollments via admissions teams to maintained cycle lanes for Maya's safe bike rides.
On a health journey, council smoke-free programs aided Amit's quitting. We partake in wellbeing walks and enjoy parks, playgrounds, and venues like The Look Out, Coral Reef, and South Hill Park. Free town center events keep family fun affordable.
Reuben, 34 – Single with Mobility Challenges
My blue badge eases parking near essentials. Council-supported community transport addresses mobility needs.
Home adaptations via the Disabled Facilities Grant – ramps, wider doors, stairlift – funded by the council make living independent possible.
Assisted bin collections simplify waste management. Accessible parks and pathways, plus social care support, wellbeing programs, and disability groups, foster community connection.
Carly, 44, and Sara, 47
After 20 years together, our April wedding was stress-free thanks to council registrars' guidance, from notices to the South Hill Park ceremony.
Expecting a daughter in March, we'll register her birth there and consider a naming event.
Lisa, 56, and Cameron, 58 – Empty Nesters
We've relied on council education, library, early years, leisure, and countryside services for years.
Passionate about climate action for our kids' future, we use food waste recycling, electric charging points, and hassle-free slots at Longshot Lane center.
Margaret, 83 – Retired
My older person's bus pass, easily applied online, frees travel to shops, doctors, and friends.
A council tax discount eases living costs. The library delivers large-print and audio books, plus free scrabble and craft clubs for mental stimulation and socializing.
Home adaptations like grab rails from social care let me live independently.
As we wrap up, let's reflect: Is the council striking the right balance between cuts and community needs, or should we demand more from national funding? Could higher council taxes be the unavoidable path forward? Share your views – agreement, disagreement, or fresh ideas – in the comments below. What controversial aspect stood out to you most?
