PRIVATE companies are being asked for their views on what Worcester City Council should spend its money on – and where the cuts should fall.

After several weeks of asking residents about their priorities, council bosses now want more employers to come forward and have a say before next month’s deadline.

The consultation feedback over spending during the 2014/15 financial year – which starts next April – will form a major part of the ultimate decision-making. The call for business input has been backed by industry leaders who say the council’s influence is growing on them.

Angela Fitch, development manager for the Federation of Small Businesses, said: “The council is playing a growing part in the business life of the city. That’s through grants for local firms, their apprenticeship schemes, work to boost graduate recruitment and more.

“How the council spends public money has a real impact on the city’s employers – not least because those businesses fulfilling council contracts may face a reduction or even cessation of that contract.

“I would urge everyone who runs a business in the city to take part in this budget consultation. The council is putting a lot of effort into generating input from business owners, so we need to be there to advise on the best way forward.”

The consultation, which kicked off in July and led to a series of roadshows with the general public, runs until Wednesday, September 4.

The council wants to cut at least £1.2 million from spending by 2015 due to dwindling Government funding, but it could end up rising significantly unless public sector funding improves.

Councillor Adrian Gregson, the city council’s leader, said: “The financial situation is difficult, but we’re determined to do the best we can.

“We are going to have to make some tough decisions.”

To get involved, log on to worcester.gov.uk/budget or you can pick up forms at the Hive, the Commandery, Worcester Art Gallery and Museum in Foregate Street or at any community centre.