Warrington North MP Charlotte Nichols has confirmed she is having conversations with the council and other bodies about a way to ‘secure’ the future of Warrington Walking Day.
Ceasing Warrington Walking Day is among the controversial cost-cutting proposals earmarked by the council.
The council’s budget plan will go to scrutiny committee on February 16, cabinet on February 18, and budget-setting full council on March 2.
The cash-strapped Labour-run authority has published its budget plan for the next four years, including a detailed budget for the 2026-27 financial year.
The budget report forecasts a projected funding gap of over £130 million across the next four years and acknowledges the ‘unprecedented’ financial challenge.
The proposed cuts and savings identified by the council, so far, total almost £40 million.
Ceasing Warrington Walking Day is proposed to save £60,000 in 2026-27.
In relation to the ‘impact’ of the proposal, the council stated: “Alternative opportunities or funding for a Warrington walk of faith will need to be explored by churches and schools.”
Warrington North MP Charlotte Nichols has issued a statement on the matter.
She said: “Walking Day is the cornerstone of our town’s annual civic calendar and an important part of Warrington’s heritage and history.
“I am having ongoing conversations with the council and other bodies about a way to secure its future. The budgetary proposals in the public domain were made before the Government’s decision to grant Exceptional Financial Support and in light of that announcement I hope the proposal to cancel Walking Day can be taken off the table as we head towards the council’s budget.
“It’s a small cost in the overall scheme of council spending but a huge part of what makes Warrington special. While the envoys may not appreciate the value of our Walking Day, I know that it is central for our town and am continuing to emphasise its importance.”
