Council asks residents what matters most as it plans next year's budget

Councillor Alaric Smith, Executive Member for Finance, said: 

“We know how much residents value the services we provide, and we work hard to make sure we are getting the best value from every pound we spend. 

“We have a strong track record of finding savings, bringing in extra income and making smart investments that help us improve services and manage costs in the longer term. 

“We want to build on that success, protecting the services people rely on while continuing to invest in our communities. Your feedback will help us understand what matters most to you and make sure we are focusing our funding where it can make the biggest difference.” 

The Council is developing its budget for the next financial year and wants residents to share their views on where money should be spent, and which services and improvements should be a priority. 

Like councils across the country, West Oxfordshire District Council continues to face financial pressures after more than a decade of reduced government funding and rising costs. Only around 10p of every £1 residents pay in council tax goes to West Oxfordshire District Council, providing more than 50 services, including waste and recycling collections, planning, housing support and leisure services. 

Despite these financial challenges, the Council has maintained a strong financial position through careful planning and management of its resources. This has allowed us to continue delivering important services and investing in improvements for residents, while preparing for future financial pressures.  

This includes bringing new life to Marriotts Walk shopping centre in Witney, where visitor numbers have risen by nearly 29% and the centre is expected to contribute around £464,000 towards council services. 

The Council's growing trade waste service is also expected to bring in around £200,000 in 2026/27, while investment in council-owned accommodation for people facing homelessness is expected to save around £127,000 a year by the end of 2027/28. 

The Council has also invested in tackling fly-tipping and continues to deliver reliable waste collections and high-quality customer services, with resident satisfaction reaching 99% for telephone services and 100% for face-to-face support. 

Residents are encouraged to share their views on where the Council should focus its spending, helping to shape its priorities for the year ahead. By making the most of its funding, finding new ways to work more efficiently and working closely with local partners, the Council aims to build a greener, fairer and more prosperous West Oxfordshire, both now and for the future. 

The consultation opens on Monday 2 November 2026 and closes on Friday 11 December 2026. Residents are encouraged to take part by completing a short online survey at www.westoxon.gov.uk/budget.