Gloucester City Council will convene a special public meeting next week to address its escalating financial crisis, responding to persistent demands from Labour, Conservative, and Independent councillors for transparency before the holiday season.
The council is confronting a severe financial shortfall, needing an emergency government bailout estimated between £12.5 million and £17.5 million to prevent a de facto bankruptcy. While local authorities are legally prohibited from declaring bankruptcy, they can issue a section 114 notice, which halts all new spending commitments—a situation Gloucester City Council risks if it fails to secure the necessary support.
Ahead of the meeting, the council’s Cabinet is set to approve a plan to apply for exceptional financial assistance, accompanied by a recovery strategy involving asset sales, boosting service income, and job cuts.
External audits have revealed a £7.8 million overspend over the past two financial years, prompting opposition leaders to push for urgent public engagement. Initial efforts to schedule a council-wide meeting before Christmas were blocked, sparking fears that the crisis might be sidelined. However, Mayor Ashley Bowkett has now confirmed a fully public session will take place on December 18.
Labour group leader Terry Pullen emphasized the importance of openness: “The people of Gloucester have a right to know what is going on. They expect their council to be transparent, honest, and act democratically.” Pullen expressed satisfaction with the mayor’s decision after his earlier requests for a public meeting had been refused, and private briefings arranged instead.
Conservative group leader Stephanie Chambers criticized any delay in public disclosure as undemocratic. “When the council faces bankruptcy, hiding behind closed doors is indefensible,” she said, urging for immediate access to information for residents.
Community Independent Councillor Alastair Chambers echoed calls for transparency, emphasizing taxpayers’ right to understand the council’s financial status.
In response, the council firmly denied allegations of concealment. A spokesperson stated, “Since identifying historic financial issues and the impact of the 2021 cyber-attack, Gloucester City Council has been fully transparent with residents, elected officials, and the government.” They detailed how recent financial setbacks—such as reduced revenue, borrowing costs linked to project delays, and decreased crematorium income—have been openly reported.
The spokesperson also highlighted ongoing collaboration with government departments and the Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy to develop a robust recovery plan. “Our priority remains to provide the best possible services for everyone in our city.”
Mayor Bowkett reaffirmed his commitment to an informed and respectful discussion during the upcoming meeting, stressing the importance of focusing on delivering effective services to Gloucester’s residents.