Oldham Council has asked for feedback on its budget plans.

The council says it is looking to find £42.55 million worth of savings over the next two financial years – which it calls a ‘huge amount’.

Cllr Abdul Jabbar, the deputy leader, said ‘tough decisions’ would need to be made.

Its consultation will run until 5pm on Friday, February 10.

In a statement, Oldham Council said: “We are currently finalising our spending plans – the budget - and over the next two financial years Oldham Council is looking to find £42.55m worth of savings.

“That’s a huge amount, and means that councillors will need to agree a range of proposals to cut expenditure, increase income and change the way we work.

“Work is going on throughout the organisation to find the savings and will continue for the next two years.

“Setting a budget is never easy and this year we have faced added financial pressures. Rising fuel and energy costs, an increase in the Real Living Wage, greater demand for services following Covid and now the Cost of Living crisis, have all had a significant impact on our budget planning.

“However, we still need to protect and carry on delivering vital services we know you all rely on, such as looking after children and the elderly; keeping our streets clean, and emptying bins.

“At the same time, we want to invest in the things that are the most important to us all, to build a better Oldham for the future.

“This means putting more money into children’s social care; tackling the Cost of Living crisis head-on with one of the country’s biggest support packages for those of you who need our help; and driving forward developments that will boost the local economy, create jobs and support local businesses. 

“So please tell us: How do you think we can save money? What do you think are the most important things to spend money on?”

From October: Oldham Council paying carers real living wage – but update delayed.

Cllr Abdul Jabbar, deputy leader and cabinet member for finance and low carbon, said: “There is no getting around it, over the next two years tough decisions will have to be made. Decisions we don’t want to make – especially at a time when the Cost of Living crisis is hitting everyone.

“At this stage all realistic options that cut costs or produce income will be looked at. Now we have launched our consultation we would urge everyone to get involved and take part.

“No final decisions about potential savings have been made yet, so your input will help shape our final plans. We are open to new ideas and we’ll consult with staff, service users, partners and the unions before anything is decided.

“Doing nothing is not an option due to the financial challenge we face.”

Those who wish to take part in the consultation can do so on Oldham Council’s website.