RESIDENTS in Fareham are being asked their views on how the council will pay for vital public services.

Fareham council are asking residents in the borough to have their say on how it pays for public servies.

The pandemic left the council with £3.66m budget shortfall due to the impact of the coronavirus lockdown.

It has incurred £260,000 of additional costs despite income falling by £1.6m.

During the pandemic so far, councillors have issued 2,000 grants which total more than £20.4m of support to local businesses; provided storage and distribution locations for food banks; issued financial rescue packages to leisure centres and made pitches at Fareham Market free.

The 'balancing the books' survey is a chance for residents to have their say on the financial situation.

Executive Leader of Fareham Borough Council, Cllr Seán Woodward, said: “Like other councils, Fareham is facing a very challenging financial position. Additional costs and loss of income were incurred as a result of the pandemic alongside increasing demand for services.

“This consultation is an opportunity for residents to comment on the council’s priorities, its council tax and its proposals to improve services and increase efficiency. This feedback will help the Council make decisions about services and resources going forward.”

The consultation runs from January 22 to February 19 and can be found at: fareham.gov.uk/have_your_say/balancingthebooks