Hertfordshire County Council has launched a new public survey giving residents – including those in Hitchin and across North Herts – the chance to have their say on how the council's £1.2 billion budget should be spent for 2026/27.

The survey, which opened on Monday (3 November), outlines how the council currently allocates funds across essential services – from social care and highways to libraries and waste – and asks people to share where they think spending should be prioritised, as well as ideas for saving money or increasing income.

Residents' feedback will help shape a balanced budget that supports the council's new Corporate Plan, while responding to what officials describe as a "challenging financial backdrop."

Around 68% of the council's current spending goes on adults' and children's social care, areas where costs and demand continue to rise. The council is also facing uncertainty over the Government's upcoming Fair Funding Review, which could see Hertfordshire lose up to £50 million a year in central funding.

Since 2010, the county council has made nearly £500 million in savings, including £46m last year and a further £42m planned this year.

Cllr Steve Jarvis, Leader of Hertfordshire County Council, said: "Our new corporate plan makes it clear that we are determined to be a council that Hertfordshire's people recognise as being on their side.

"The potential impact of the Government's Fair Funding Review coupled with rising service costs means we're likely going to have to make some difficult decisions in our upcoming budget.

"That's why it's so important our residents' views and ideas are reflected in this process."

The budget consultation survey is open until Sunday 7 December, and local residents can take part at www.hertfordshire.gov.uk/budgetsurvey.