Businesses have just a week left to take part in Bristol City Council’s budget simulator and let Mayor Marvin Rees know what their priorities are as he strives to balance the books.
The online simulator breaks down the services provided by the council and describes what they do. It was set up by Mayor Rees shortly after his election in May. Government cuts mean the council has to slash at least £60m from its budget over the three years. These follow on from reductions of more than £100m from council spending over the past four years. 
The budget simulator puts users in control of increasing or decreasing budgets to make savings – so giving them get a real sense of the issues and the impact of making savings.
Mayor Rees said: “Like all councils in the UK, Bristol faces big financial challenges in the coming years. We know that funding will go down, costs will go up and more people need our services.
“Because of this we’ll have some really difficult decisions to make on how we spend money to meet your needs and create a fairer city where no-one is left behind.
“These decisions will affect most of us in one way or another, either as residents or as businesses.
Whilst this isn’t a referendum – so no promises about our final decisions – it is a chance for people to show me what their priorities are. In return we’ll absolutely consider all the responses as we plan for the future.”
“All too often local councils are accused of not engaging local people and business. I really hope as many people as possible will take a little time to be part of this important conversation – because in these uncertain times there’s no doubt it will have a real impact on Bristol’s future.”
Later this year the council will make formal proposals followed by a 12-week consultation from around mid-October
The simulator, which ends on August 19, can be accessed from a computer, smartphone or tablet at bristol.budgetsimulator.com.
Businesses can also contact the mayor with ideas or suggestions at mayor@bristol.gov.uk
