North Ayrshire’s council leader has admitted “tough choices” will need to be made when making this year’s budget.

The council is expecting to face a funding gap of £10.2 million – a number expected to rise to £34 million over the next three years - which councillors will discuss when they set the 2023-2024 budget on March 1.

Ahead of the budget, the council have asked residents to participate in a budget consultation – but the deadline of January 30 at 5pm is fast approaching.

Councillor Burns said: “It is really pleasing to see that more than 1000 people living and working in North Ayrshire have already taken the time to fill in the budget consultation survey.

“We would like to see even more people getting involved and expressing their opinions.

“This is your chance to have your say, tell us what you think and help us shape the priorities for the year ahead.”

The consultation asks residents to rate services in order of importance, and asks their views on schools and early-years centres, as well as their opinions on workplaces and living spaces.

Respondents are also asked to have their say on community facilities, highlight which services they believe are most and least important, and propose changes to the area.

The survey should take around 15 minutes to complete and can be accessed here: www.tinyurl.com/nacbudgetconsultation