Plan for Change in Sandwell: Economic Stability
Sandwell Labour understands the importance of sound management of public finances that protects households and frontline services. Here is the evidence on what we have delivered and what is planned next, with sources for every figure.
A Balanced Budget With Clear Priorities
Sandwell Council has proposed a balanced budget for 2026/27, set out in the Medium Term Financial Strategy and Draft Budget 2026/27 (Source: Sandwell Council – Medium Term Financial Strategy and Draft Budget 2026/27).
Two thirds of spending is committed to adults and children’s social care and education.
Keeping Bills Manageable
Sandwell has historically maintained one of the lowest average council tax bills in the West Midlands metropolitan area thanks to the careful financial planning of your Labour Council.
Independent Assurance Of Progress
We are delivering real improvements, but don’t just take our word for it. The Local Government Association’s corporate peer challenge follow-up found material improvement in Sandwell’s financial management and governance (Sandwell Council has undergone a remarkable and profound transformation) thanks to a relentless focus on being brilliant at the basics.
What Stability Delivers On The Ground
- Protecting frontline services: balanced budgets in 2024/25 and 2025/26 supported street cleansing, safety and local priorities.
- Responsible tax decisions: council tax set within national limits to safeguard care for vulnerable adults and children.
- Transparent plans: the 2026/27 MTFS sets out detailed figures on spending pressures, savings and reserves.
Economic stability is the foundation that enables investment in neighbourhoods, safer streets and new homes.