A net resource transfer to the Clackmannanshire and Stirling Health and Social Care Partnership of £31.6m was also agreed for 2026/27.

Councillors agreed to raise Council Tax by 5.6%, resulting in a Band D Council tax of £1,683.67.

They also agreed to a planned £238m Capital Investment Programme for the period from 2026/27 to 2045/46.

This planned programme includes the delivery of the Wellbeing Hub and Lochies School in Alloa.

Councillors heard that the local authority has made £74m of savings since 2010 through modernising services, embedding digital solutions, reshaping structures and strengthening financial resilience.

While these changes have improved efficiency and protected priority services, the council said it continues to operate in a challenging context.

“We face a projected cumulative funding gap of £24.5m by 2031/32, and opportunities for further incremental efficiencies are now limited,” it added.

The meeting also heard about the council’s Target Operating Model and the plan in the next few years to further streamline its senior management structure, following a previous restructure in 2018.

This is part of an ongoing Be The Future transformation and is in response to ongoing financial pressures, the need for innovation and embracing further changes in the way we operate.

Council leader, Councillor Ellen Forson, said: “I know this has been a difficult year for many families and individuals across Clackmannanshire. Households are still feeling the impact of rising costs, and setting this budget has required careful and responsible decisions.

“The council has agreed a £181.2m revenue budget for 2026/27, alongside a £54m capital investment programme. Our priority throughout has been to protect the services that people rely on every day - our schools, support for vulnerable families, adult social care, and the services that keep our communities safe and connected.

“We have taken the decision to increase Council Tax by 5.6%. That is not something we do lightly, but it allows us to maintain essential local services while continuing to invest in Clackmannanshire’s future - including our new Wellbeing Hub and Lochies School and improvements to roads and community facilities.

“I want to thank residents for their continued engagement and our staff for their dedication and care. Together, we will continue working to ensure Clackmannanshire remains a place where people feel supported, valued and able to thrive.”