People are being encouraged to share their thoughts as South Norfolk Council (SNC) struggles to balance its budget. 

SNC has published its budget consultation for the 2024/25 financial year and is seeking residents’ and businesses' views. 

The authority - which also covers Greater Norwich areas including Costessey, Cringleford and Trowse - spends around £55m a year on providing vital services, such as waste collection, housing and benefits. 

Like most authorities, it has seen its funding from central government fall and is now struggling to balance its books, with around £250,000 of “transformative savings” needed in 2024 and 2025. 

While the amount of money the authority will get from the government is currently unknown, it is expected to remain static over the next few years. 

To help offset this SNC has said it will increase its share of council tax for a Band D property by £5 to £170.00 for 2024/25. 

The authority has said it anticipates next year will bring “significant inflationary pressure” of 6.5pc and the cost of temporary accommodation for homeless people to remain high. 

Council forecasts predict the authority will need to identify millions in savings over the next few years, largely because government funding is not expected to keep up with inflation. 

Despite the council tax rise, papers presented to SNC’s scrutiny committee earlier this month said the draft 2024/25 revenue budget was “not currently balanced”.  

Councils must deliver a balanced budget.  

A spokesman said: “With increased demands for services feedback from residents is more important than ever.  

“The consultation is an opportunity to hear from residents and establish which services they consider are priorities for spending. 

“This consultation is a great opportunity for residents and businesses to contribute to the discussions and the Council would encourage all South Norfolk residents to spare a few minutes to complete the survey.” 

The consultation runs until January 17.