A message from Cllr Kevin Guy, Leader of Bath & North East Somerset CouncilAs we head into the autumn a huge amount of work is under way on our budget proposals for 2026 to 2027. All councils are facing significant financial pressures, and it is no different in Bath and North East Somerset. We are going to feel the impact Government’s Fair Funding Review, which is a major overhaul of funding for local government. Our services work incredibly hard to help improve people’s lives but as we look ahead we will face the challenges of doing more with less as we work to once again balance our budget. I will continue to update you as we develop our spending plans. One source of funding for positive local schemes which comes into the council is the Neighbourhood Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) - a planning charge payable on new building developments to be spent on projects that benefit the community. Because Bath has no parish or town councils, as the North East Somerset area does, the council allocates the funds. So we are asking residents in Bath for your views on which of sixteen local projects could benefit from a new round of community funding. The shortlisted projects include play facilities, sustainable energy and community hall improvements. The consultation on round 18 of CIL funding is open until November 7. Earlier this week I took the opportunity to meet Professor Georgina Andrews Vice-Chancellor of Bath Spa University, and Rebecca Schaaf Vice Chancellor for Student Experience (pictured). We discussed the creative arts and the positive impact both universities have on culture and arts in our area. Students bring a huge energy to our city and I am proud of the contribution they make to Bath & North East Somerset. Finally, as part of National Hate Crime Awareness Week and I want to take a moment to reaffirm Bath & North East Somerset Council’s unwavering commitment to making our area a safe, inclusive, and respectful place for everyone. This week is a vital opportunity to stand together against hate in all its forms. Hate crime is not just an attack on individuals — it’s an attack on the values we hold dear as a community. In Avon and Somerset, we have a dedicated service tackling hate crime: Stand Against Racism and Inequality (SARI). It offers a reporting service for hate crime incidents where no-one is in immediate danger. If you or someone you know has been affected by hate crime, please know that support is available. Visit our Hate Crime Support page for resources and reporting options. Let’s continue to build a community where diversity is celebrated, and hate has no home. Have a great weekend. | 
