Giving Newcastle residents a bigger say in the city's budget

Our Liberal Democrat administration that formed following the May 2026 elections said that we would invest "in change people can see through the front window".

As part of that commitment, Newcastle City Council have launched a new version of their People’s Budget that will ask residents how they would allocate a budget of almost £400 million. In the past, participants were asked how they would make savings. Instead, for the first time, people will be asked how they would want to spend the budget.

Cllr Mark Mitchell, Deputy Leader of the Council and Lib Dem councillor for West Fenham said:

“Residents care how the council spends money, and about the quality of the services that they receive.

“The People’s Budget is a real chance for everyone in Newcastle to engage in the budget-setting process and to give their view on how the council makes spending decision for next year.

“As the new administration, we don’t just want to talk to you about cuts, services reductions and savings.

“Instead, we want to give you the ability to say where you think council tax and other income of the council should be prioritised and spent.

“Since taking over leadership of the council in May, we have already invested in our city’s parks, youth services, housing repairs and playgrounds.

“We want to deliver even more investment and will be working with residents, businesses, community groups and councillors across the chamber to do just that.”

Residents will be asked to complete their own People’s Budget by 11 October.

The Council will consult on their budget in late Autumn but findings from the People’s Budget campaign will support decisions taken by councillors.

[Image source: Newcastle City Council]