Huge boost for Morecambe as town council approves highest ever budget for festivals and events

Morecambe Town Council’s budget meeting has been hailed as a turning point for the authority, which, after a challenging year, has found itself going from strength to strength in recent months.
The council approved a £75,000 budget for festivals and events in 2021.The council approved a £75,000 budget for festivals and events in 2021.
The council approved a £75,000 budget for festivals and events in 2021.

With the unanimous approval of a £75,000 budget for festivals and events in 2021, the council has pledged to continue its support for local organisations who can help promote wellbeing and provide positive outcomes to assist the local economy in its recovery from Covid-19.

In what has been described as a bold move, Morecambe Town Council has set a budget of £395,112 - a substantial portion of which will be carried over from unspent funds.

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In addition to the festivals and events, the council has agreed to continue its grant fund of £35,000 to provide further opportunities for local organisations to tackle deprivation and promote stronger and safer communities.

Morecambe Town Hall.Morecambe Town Hall.
Morecambe Town Hall.

Coun Cary Matthews, chairman of Morecambe Town Council, said: "It is exciting to see so many projects being undertaken at the moment and this budget will enable the council to maintain its momentum to deliver further benefits for the community. It’s great to have a budget that will provide something for everyone and I am excited to see what 2021 has in store for Morecambe.”

Coun Paul Anderton, vice chairman of Morecambe Town Council, added: "This budget is our most ambitious to date and demonstrates the commitment of all councillors to positively collaborate for the benefit of residents.

"There are many initiatives and improvements the town will benefit from next year and the council will now be in a better position to drive the area forward.”

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Currently the town council precept is one of the lowest in Lancaster at about 25p per week for most properties.

The budget that has been set will mean an increase of about 50p per month for most households next year and the extra money will allow residents to reap the rewards of more tangible results.

In comparison, the precept in neighbouring Carnforth is about £1 per week for a Band D property.

In addition to setting its budget, the council has also agreed to develop a three-year plan to progress the authority and ensure any milestones are sustained for future generations.

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The council has extended the contract of Luke Trevaskis, its proper officer, for a further six months, who will work with members and stakeholders to ensure the aspirations within the new budget are realised.