Ahead of the SNP Scottish Government “travelling cabinet” arriving in East Lothian next week, East Lothian Labour Councillors have launched a campaign demanding the government deliver fair funding for the county’s critical infrastructure and local services at the forthcoming Scottish Budget.

Despite the results of the latest Scottish Census confirming that East Lothian is the second fastest growing local authority in Scotland, the council is ranked third from last out of Scotland’s 32 councils for funding per head of population.

This funding discrepancy is putting enormous pressure on the council’s budget, with a projected funding gap of more than £71 million over the next five years.

Grant funding from the Scottish Government accounts for around three-quarters of East Lothian Council’s total budget, meaning additional revenue from council tax only covers a small proportion of the additional costs the council is incurring.

The campaign is calling on the Scottish Government to change the way revenue funding is distributed to increase the amount East Lothian receives, establish a Local Growth Fund to provide additional support to authorities like East Lothian which have experienced the greatest population growth and increase capital funding in recognition of the new public infrastructure the growth needs.

Labour Leader Cllr Norman Hampshire said:

“East Lothian is meeting all the Scottish Government’s targets on housing and economic development, which means we are making a significant contribution to Scotland’s overall growth and prosperity.

“However, despite bearing the brunt of this development, we are not being supported to deal with its consequences, such as the need for new roads, schools and healthcare facilities. The additional revenue costs incurred by this substantial and rapid growth are also not being recognised by the funding we receive from government.

“We have been making the case for fair funding for years, but Ministers have refused to listen. Now the financial situation is worse than ever. That is why we have decided to take our case out to the people of East Lothian and ask them to support our call for fair funding for our county.”

Supporting the campaign, Martin Whitfield MSP said:

“Despite growing costs, local councils across Scotland have suffered years of funding cuts leaving many in a perilous financial situation. However, East Lothian is almost unique in having such a high level of growth, but low level of Scottish Government funding.

“East Lothian is a fantastic place to live and work, with great local public services. However, unless this growing local funding gap is tackled, we will all see a deterioration in the county’s essential infrastructure and services.

“The means to close that gap lie squarely with the SNP Government, which has starved councils of cash for years. I’m pleased to back this campaign and support my council colleagues in making the case for fair funding for East Lothian.”