Have your say on how Cheshire West and Chester can stay Fit for the Future

Cheshire West and Chester Council is inviting residents, businesses, and community organisations to take part in its annual budget consultation, Fit for the Future.

The consultation asks people to share their views on how the Council should plan for the years ahead, making the best use of public money while continuing to protect vital local services.

The Council spends almost one billion pounds each year delivering services that matter most to residents, from social care and schools to waste collection and roads. With rising costs and increasing demand, the Council must make careful choices about how to balance its budget and plan for the future.

Council Leader, Councillor Louise Gittins, said:

“This consultation is about listening carefully to what matters most to local people. We all rely on our local services, and we want to make sure they remain sustainable and strong for the future. Fit for the Future is your opportunity to share your views and help shape how we prioritise investment across west Cheshire.”

Cabinet Member for Legal and Finance, Councillor Carol Gahan, added:

“We want everyone who lives, works, or studies in west Cheshire to take part. The views gathered through this consultation will guide how the Council plans its spending and ensures value for money in the years ahead.”

The Fit for the Future consultation runs from Monday 20th October until Sunday 30th November 2025.  

There are several ways you can get involved and have your say:

• Visit: www.cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk/fitforthefuture to complete a survey and take part in our budget simulator
• Write to: Fit for the future, Insight and Intelligence, Cheshire West and Chester Council, The Portal, Wellington Road, Ellesmere Port, CH65 0BA
• Telephone: 0300 123 8123 to speak to the Council’s Contact Centre, quoting ‘Fit for the future’
• Paper copies of this consultation will be available in public libraries and on request using the contact details above. Alternative formats are also available on request.
• Email: councilbudget@cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk to share your views