NEWQUAY Town Council has set out its priorities for the forthcoming financial year after finalising its budget.

The authority aims to put “community investment, sustainability, and financial stability” at the forefront of its aspirations.

The council, which will have a gross expenditure budget of £3,231,614, is committed to maintaining and enhancing essential services, including public conveniences, improved CCTV coverage for enhanced safety and support for community and tourism initiatives that benefit residents and visitors alike.

There will be a focus on key community assets. The budget emphasises protecting and maintaining Newquay’s “cherished” community spaces, with funding allocated for the maintenance and potential devolution of Newquay Youth Centre and Mount Wise Gardens.

There will be continued investment in open spaces and the library to ensure the resources remain accessible and well-maintained for all.

Newquay Town Council remains committed to reducing its environmental impact and operational costs. Plans for the year include solar panel installation at the Mount Wise Centre and exploring additional energy efficiency measures, such as heat pumps, to further reduce utility costs.

The town council will maintain its support for community events, including Easter celebrations and Newquay Sessions, while exploring partnership opportunities to sustain and enhance these activities. Increased funding for mayoral and community-focused initiatives is also included.

The council says it has strategically planned for the future, ensuring readiness for the devolution of additional services from Cornwall Council. Reserves have been bolstered to fund unforeseen projects and emergencies, providing a “strong financial foundation” for years to come.

Residents will see no change in their town council tax rates for the 2025/26 financial year, which aims to provide “financial consistency” for residents.

Households living in a Band D property will be paying £300.98, which equates to £5.77 a week.

Mayor Cllr Drew Creek said: “This budget, with zero increase, represents the hard work by officers and councillors, ensuring that we deliver services that residents want, like our library, environment team, CCTV, among others, and events that are much loved, like the huge Christmas lights and market weekend on the Killacourt.

“As a town council, we have made our assets work harder for taxpayers and reduced wasteful or unnecessary spending. This is a budget we can all be proud of and have confidence that your town council is always working hard for Newquay.”

A spokesperson for the town council added: “The budget is the result of extensive collaboration, with councillors and town council staff meeting numerous times before the budget setting meeting to thoroughly review and refine the details.

“This meticulous approach ensures the budget aligns with the needs and aspirations of the community.

“The budget incorporates income from the new second homes council tax, which increased the number of homes contributing to the town’s precept. “Recognising the uncertainty surrounding this funding source, the council has allocated a portion to bolster reserves, ensuring future financial resilience.

“This budget represents the council’s unwavering commitment to balancing community priorities, environmental sustainability, and financial prudence.

“Extensive deliberations before its approval reflect the dedication of councillors and staff to ensure the best outcomes for residents.”