CABINET members have backed plans to save millions of pounds in Hampshire by drastically slashing funding for vital services and potentially increasing council tax.

Hampshire County Council officers suggested proposals to make saving in a bid to address an anticipated budget shortfall of £140m by April 2019.

Officers suggested millions could be conserved by cuts including social adults’ health and care services (£56m) while subsidised bus services and community transport (combined £4m) could also lose their entire funding pot to save £4m.

They also suggest that £1.2m could be saved by closing household waste recycling centres and amending the hours of the rest.

Now cabinet members at the county council have unanimously supported the proposals.

County council leader, councillor Roy Perry explained how with revenue support grant from Government soon coming to an end, together with rising inflation and significant increases in the numbers of elderly people, younger adults and children needing care - the pressures are mounting.

He said: “We have to find a way forward to realistically deal with these issues. We are assuming a rise in the council tax.

“Increases in council tax, in line with Government policy, will have to play an important role in helping to contribute towards balancing the budget – residents have told us they understand the need for this and that they are prepared to pay a bit more.”

Cllr Alan Dawden, representing the opposition party, said to understand the pressure but added to be concerned about the impact of the proposed cuts on social care services.

He said: “You are challenging social care budget at a time where everyone increases demand for them.”

However, councillors stressed how as part of the scheme aimed at balancing the budget the authority will also invest in new IT technologies and software which will aim to find new ways to provide services.

The council will also aim to reduce the number of children going into care.

A final decision is expected to be made on November 2.

Further consultations with residents and stakeholders will then be conducted where necessary.