Town hall’s four-year financial plan will be discussed at area forums

Residents and traders are being urged to have their say about the council’s proposed budget for the next financial year by attending their local consultative forums.

The town hall’s four-year financial plan are currently being prepared and council chief want to hear the views of residents and businesses about its budgetary priorities.

In addition to setting the council’s expenditure priorities, the budget process also sets the council tax rate which households must pay and the local authority’s spending and provision of services.

Each of the five area forums will include a presentation by Cllr Ann John OBE, Brent Council Leader or Cllr Muhammed Butt, Deputy Council Leader.

There will also be a question and answer session for residents to share their views and to get answers first hand.

Cllr John, who is also the lead member for corporate strategy and policy coordination, said: “This will be one of the most difficult budgets that Brent Council has ever made.

“The government has told us to expect cuts every year through until 2017 and this means that we are facing enormous financial pressures. Setting the budget for the next financial year will be very demanding and it is important that we get it right.

“Your views are very important to us and will help us to shape and set the council’s priorities. We want you to join the discussion at an area consultative forum or by submitting your views online.”

Harlesden Consultative Forum takes place today (Tuesday) at All Souls Church, Station Road, Harlesden.

Kilburn and Kensal will be held tomorrow (Wednesday) at the Granville Plus Community Centre in Granville Road, Kilburn,

Wembley is at Patidar House in London Road, Wembley, on January 17.

Willesden will take place at College of North West London in Denzil Road, Willesden, on January 18.

Kingsbury and Kenton is at Kingsbury High School in Princes Avenue, Kingsbury, on February 8.

All forums begin at 7pm.

Alternatively you can air you views online by visiting www.brent.gov.uk/consultation.