Residents, businesses and community groups across Rother are being urged to have their say on the District Council’s draft budget proposals for 2027/28.
The call by council chiefs comes as the authority faces significant financial challenges including a funding gap of £1.2 million pounds.
The authority has launched a public consultation on its draft revenue budget, which outlines how it plans to spend £38m on services in the district. The consultation runs until 5pm on Wednesday 16th December 2026.
Council Leader Doug Oliver said: “Like other councils across the country, Rother faces growing financial pressures, including increasing demand for services, inflation, rising operating costs and higher supplier charges.
“The simple truth is that we must identify savings, make changes to some services and income streams, and explore opportunities to increase revenue.
“Our budget supports the priorities set out in our Council Plan 2025-2029, including creating a thriving local economy, helping residents live well locally, and ensuring the district remains green to the core.
“We’re proposing a range of changes designed to help address the funding gap. These include reviewing some grants, services, fees and charges. While no final decisions have been made, the council wants to understand how the proposals could affect residents, businesses and community organisations before setting its final budget.
“Feedback from residents, businesses and community groups will help us ensure that we make informed decisions about the future of services in Rother. I would encourage everyone to take a few minutes to complete the consultation and tell us what you think.”
While Rother District Council collects council tax, only around nine per cent of the total council tax bill is retained to fund district council services. The remainder is distributed to East Sussex County Council, Sussex Police, East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service, and town and parish councils.
Residents can view the full budget proposals and take part in the consultation online at: https://www.smartsurvey.co.uk/t/RotherBudget27/ Questions or longer written responses can be emailed to: consultations@rother.gov.uk. Alternatively, responses can be sent to: Budget 2027 Consultation, Rother District Council, Town Hall, Bexhill-on-Sea TN39 3JX.
Published: 10th November 2026
