One in four English councils could go bankrupt unless they are bailed out by the government in the next two years, a survey has revealed.
Councils are warning of a “worsening crisis” that could result in cuts to vital public services amid a funding gap of more than £2bn next year, according to the survey of chief executives conducted by the Local Government Association.
Louise Gittins, the LGA chair, said local governments were facing an “extraordinary funding emergency” in which more were being pushed into a precarious funding position.
“This is not just about numbers on a spreadsheet,” she said. “Budget cuts needed to plug growing funding gaps will affect the most vulnerable members of society and the services our…
