Issue - meetings
Q2 Budget Monitoring Report 2025/26
Meeting: 25/11/2025 - Corporate Policy Development and Scrutiny Panel (Item 179)
179 Q2 Budget Monitoring Report 2025/26 
PDF 94 KB
:
Additional documents:
- Appendix 1 - E3651 April to September 2025 Budget Monitoring Report - Q2, item 179
PDF 397 KB
- Annex 1 - Revenue Monitoring Commentary, item 179
PDF 190 KB
- Annex 2 - Key Scheme Capital Budget Commentary, item 179
PDF 196 KB
- Annex 3 - Revenue Savings Monitor, item 179
PDF 178 KB
- Webcast for Q2 Budget Monitoring Report 2025/26
Minutes:
The Cabinet Member for Resources, Councillor Mark Elliott, introduced the report.
Panel members raised the following points and asked the following questions:
Councillor Hounsell asked why staffing underspends and vacancies are being used to manage overspends.The Cabinet Member explained that vacancy management is a common financial tool. Current vacancy levels are within tolerance and not considered a significant risk.
Councillor Hughes asked what is causing delays in capital projects like Somer Valley Enterprise Zone. The Cabinet Member explained that the project is a key priority.
Councillor Hughes mentioned Bath Quays not being full and the Roman Baths income targets not being met and asked if there is overoptimism.
The Cabinet Member explained that visitor numbers from international markets (e.g., China) have not recovered as forecast. Income per head is strong, but overall footfall is lower than expected. He explained that Jolly’s opening has moved from late Spring to Summer – this is due to the extensive work to mend the roof.
Councillor David asked what is done when it looks like areas may go over budget, for example Parks department forecast overspend. She added that the team is already stretched so vacancy management may have a strong effect. The Cabinet Member stated that he would take these comments back.
Councillor Hughes asked about the status of Being Our Best (BoB) savings target. The Cabinet Member explained that the point was not to drive savings but to pay at the right level – some jobs were graded upwards. The officer added that full savings expected by 2026/27, mainly from structural changes yet to be implemented.
Councillor Malcolm Treby asked if capital rephasing affects revenue savings. The Cabinet Member explained that the impact varies by project. For example, delays in the SEND school rebuild (Culveryhay) affect long-term revenue savings. Treasury management ensures borrowing is optimized.
The Chair stated that it was good to hear that there is more confidence regarding Children’s Services.
The Chair thanked the Cabinet Member and officer.
: