Response to the Spring Statement 2025
Ann Carruthers, President of ADEPT, said:
"The Spring Statement delivered by the Chancellor today recognises the complex and challenging environment our country finds itself in. Times are indeed uncertain, and the global landscape has demanded a response acknowledging the need for increased spending in areas including defence.
“These are urgent requirements which need clear and decisive action because of their immediacy.
“But what must also be acknowledged is that in the not-too-distant future, other challenges including those concerning our ageing highways infrastructure, climate change adaptation, housing delivery, planning and waste management will, in their turn, also become immediate, non-negotiable issues requiring urgent spending and action.
“It is the desire of ADEPT and its members that these issues be addressed now with effective, long term comprehensive solutions, many of which are the result of research and expertise originating from our organisation and its partnerships.
“While we welcome spending to support industry and job creation in areas across the country including Barrow, more must be done to help local government support local communities.
“The reality we face is that the essential services people rely on every day are being pushed to breaking point. We expected more time and attention to be given to these concerns in this Spring Statement.
“Place-based services – from roads to waste collection, housing and green spaces – are integral to supporting healthier, more sustainable communities that subsequently deliver the desired growth and prosperity the government has aspirations for.
“Yet, without adequate resources, local authorities are simply unable to deliver these critical services.
“Although this statement has not answered our pleas for the urgent reforms needed to address local government funding, ADEPT is fully committed to pushing for long term, sustainable solutions for the sector - we are ready to work alongside the government to achieve this. Only with predictable, adequate funding can we ensure the continuation of the essential services that make our places resilient, safe and supportive for everyone.”
