And some councils predict this figure could rise further as the pandemic, the lockdown and other restrictions continue.
Lincolnshire County Council leader Martin Hill said: “Local councils are playing a major role in supporting our communities and our most vulnerable residents during this crisis.
“This has inevitably meant we have faced greater costs than expected this year.
Lincolnshire County Council Leader Martin Hill. Photo: LCC
“We have received additional funding from the government, but, even so, we currently forecast a shortfall of around £5.8m.
“It should be stressed that with the ongoing uncertainty about when society might fully re-open and what measures might remain in place, this is only an estimate and could change.
“However, thanks to our careful financial management over recent years, we are reasonably well placed to meet this financial challenge and do have reserves we can draw on to help plug this funding gap.”
Below are the authorities’ latest estimates of the impact on their budgets, in brackets are the amount they have received in government grant:
SKDC cabinet member for finance and resources, councillor Adam Stokes, said the impact of coronavirus on income was unclear and a number of possible scenarios were being worked on.
Councillor Stokes said: “It is an uncertain picture due to the impact of Coronavirus, but SKDC is in a strong financial position. We are an ambitious council and still intend to deliver on major projects.
“We will continue to monitor the financial position and an amended budget will be presented to the Cabinet in September.”
How the funding for local councils breaks down so far.
A spokesman for West Lindsey said reserves were available to meet in year budget pressures, however, “this can only be spent once”.
“With the longer term impacts, the impending review of local government finance and the business rates system there are a number of future financial risks which we also need to address,” they said.
“The council will therefore continue to lobby government to meet the overall impact of COVID-19.”
A spokesman for NKDC said a new financial plan would see it and the district “firmly into recovery”, including economic investment in North Kesteven “which will generate local jobs and revenue”.
“We look forward to the government’s promised continued support in the form of a comprehensive settlement for the sector.
“Government financial support to councils is part of a solution which recognises we are all in this together.”
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We are investigating following a house fire where a man has sadly died.
Officers were called to the incident in Farrow Road, Spalding, at 1.03am today (7 August) following reports of what was described as an explosion. The property has suffered 100% damage.
Despite the best efforts of emergency services and members of the public who offered assistance, a man in his 50’s was sadly pronounced dead at the scene.
His next of kin have been informed.
Another man who is thought to have been passing by the property and offered his help suffered burn injuries and is currently receiving treatment.
The cause of the fire is under investigation, and we are keeping an open mind as experts from Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue Service investigate today. We would encourage people not to speculate while we investigate the cause.
Officers will remain in the area for the next few days carrying out enquiries.
Anyone who saw or heard anything, or captured the incident on doorbell camera or dashcam is asked to contact us. There are a number of ways to get in touch:
You can call us on 101 quoting incident number 43 of 7 August.
You can email: [email protected] incident number 43 of 7 August in the subject line.
If you wish to remain anonymous, you can call CrimeStoppers on 0800 555 111 or you can give information anonymously online
Lincolnshire 30 Under 30, The Lincolnite‘s showcase of young up and coming talent and high achievers, is open for nominations.
Thanks to our sponsors, Sparkhouse, Ringrose Law, Streets Chartered Accountants, Lincoln College and The Strait & Narrow, publishers Stonebow Media are organising the celebration of Lincolnshire’s promising talent for this autumn.
In 2021 we received almost 200 nominations for our county’s rising stars and and we’re seeking those who have shone over the past twelve months from entrepreneurs, to athletes, artists and rapidly developing professionals.
We’re looking to hear from inspirational young achievers from all backgrounds and professional fields. You can nominate yourself, or someone you know personally or professionally who is making our county proud.
Nominations are open for people from across Greater Lincolnshire (from the Humber to the Wash), either living or working in our region (and beyond!)
Entries close on September 9. A reception event is scheduled for Thursday, November 10, at the Lincoln Cathedral Chapterhouse. Check out the 2021 celebration.
Why this matters
The Lincolnite’s 30 Under 30 showcase is a celebration of the best and brightest in Lincolnshire, putting our young talent on the map regionally and nationally.
Stonebow Media’s platform and channels reach unparalleled audiences, opening up further opportunities and recognition for those involved.
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