PUBLIC services across south Essex are expected to face further cuts next year as the Government slashes millions from council funding.

The Government has revealed the amount it plans to cut from grants to councils next year.

Councils will use the predictions, known as the provisional local government finance settlement, as they plan next year’s budgets.

Essex County Council faces a £27million cut, equivalent to a seven per cent drop on this year’s grant.

Southend Council will receive £7.6million less, a 9.8 per cent cut in funding. Basildon Council’s funding will be cut by £1.3million – a 13.3 per cent fall.

Rochford District Council will have to make up a shortfall of £510,000 after a 13.4 per cent cut.

Nigel Holdcroft, leader of Southend Council, said: “Our initial view is that it’s broadly in line with our expectations and will require us to deliver further significant revenue savings over the next financial year.”

Stuart Sullivan, Basildon councillor responsible for resources, said: “This cut in funding comes as no surprise.

Through careful planning and prudent financial management, we have prepared and are ready for this.”

Castle Point Council was unable to provide the Echo with details of its settlement despite receiving the information from the Government on Wednesday, December 18.