Council's Budget survey receives more than 4,000 responses

A series of surveys were held with the aim of giving the council a clear picture of how changes to some services might impact communities.

It attracted North Ayrshire's largest ever number of submissions – 4,436 – and the results will help inform elected members before any Budget decisions are taken early next year.

The surveys closed on Monday, November 25 and the council’s chief executive Craig Hatton has thanked everyone who made their voice heard.

Chief Executive Craig Hatton (Image: NAC)

Mr Hatton said: “It’s no secret that North Ayrshire – like every other local authority – faces a real challenge in being able to set a balanced budget.

“Our Budget gap for next year is currently forecast at around £16 million so it’s clear that significant savings will be required.

“It’s vital that the voices of our communities are heard throughout this process and I’m really pleased that we have received more than 4,000 responses to the surveys.

“It shows how much people care about their community and the services we provide. Thank you to everyone who took time out of their day to submit a response.

“We will now gather all the data from the surveys and the results will be fed back to elected members ahead of the Budget being set in February 2025.”

The surveys covered a wide range of council services including economic development, community facilities and car parking, waste services, taxes, schools, and an additional survey on the proposed Council Tax Levy on second homes.

In addition to the surveys, council officers have also been holding meetings with community groups and stakeholders to gather their views on how any changes might impact them.