Cambridge City Council has launched its “Priorities and Budget 2026-27” consultation inviting residents, businesses, and community groups to help shape how the council’s money is spent across the city in the coming year.
The annual consultation seeks views on how the council should prioritise spending across services ranging from waste and recycling to community building and climate initiatives.
People who live and work in Cambridge are encouraged to share their perspectives on where the council should prioritise its budget across six strategic priorities and a range of frontline services.
Cllr Simon Smith, Cabinet Member for Finance and Resources, explained: “Last year, in response to rising costs, increased demand for services and historic public sector austerity, we had a target to reduce our annual spending by £6 million a year by April 2027. In the current year the council is on track to reduce spending by £4.9 million a year.
“We have protected frontline services while saving money through reduced staffing costs, and making services more efficient, with greater use of digital technology, and increased charges for some council-run services.
“These changes mean the council now has a much more manageable challenge as we look to reduce annual spending by a further £1.5 million over the next two years.”
In 2025/26, the council is set to spend £113.4 million, with just under 10% of this funded by local Council Tax. As well as its statutory duties, the council delivers a wide range of additional discretionary services to support its vision for ‘One Cambridge, fair for all’.
The vision is supported by six strategic priorities which were approved by Full Council in July 2024. The survey asks respondents to share their views on how resources should be allocated across these priorities.
Cllr Smith continued: “We want to ensure that every pound we spend reflects the values and needs of our communities. This is your opportunity to influence the decisions that affect your neighbourhood, from clean streets and leisure facilities to housing services and support for vulnerable residents.”
Businesses, community groups, residents and those who work in Cambridge can complete the survey online via the council’s consultation platform engage.cambridge.gov.uk; or request a paper copy by visiting the Customer Service Centre at Mandela House, Regents Street or by contacting 01223 457000 and asking for the communications team. The consultation will remain open until Sunday 16 November 2025.
Feedback from these consultations will inform the budget setting process for 2026/2027.
