Richmond Council has secured transitional funding protections in the Government's provisional Local Government Finance Settlement, but says it is still facing significant cuts to its funding over the next three years.

The settlement, published last week, confirms that the council's core funding will remain cash-flat during that period.

While transitional protections have reduced the scale of losses originally expected, Richmond Council is still projected to face a real-terms funding reduction of £29 million by 2028/29.

Council leaders say the protections follow months of lobbying and advocacy on behalf of residents, but warn the settlement continues to place pressure on essential local services.

Councillor Gareth Roberts, Leader of Richmond Council, said transitional protection offered "some breathing space" but did not go far enough.

"This deal still leaves Richmond facing massive cuts in government funding," he said.

"We have been absolutely clear with the Government: Richmond needs a fair settlement that protects essential services for the people who rely on them.

"It is frankly shocking that councils that have planned well and lived within their means continue to be penalised, while demand for essential services keeps rising."

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Under the settlement, Richmond's projected losses are now £9 million next year, rising to £29 million by the third year of the funding period.

This compares to earlier projections of losses between £12 million and £45 million under the Fair Funding Review.

Deputy Leader and Finance Lead, Cllr Jim Millard, said the funding situation would likely lead to council tax rises at the maximum level allowed.

"To continue safeguarding the services that keep our community safe and supported, we will be forced to increase council tax by the maximum amount permitted each year," he said.

"This is not something we do lightly, but the Government has left us with no alternative.

"Without doing so, we would face devastating cuts that would put vulnerable residents at risk and undermine the fabric of our community."

Cllr Millard added that the council remains committed to innovation and sound financial management, including a transformation programme aimed at delivering £30 million in annual savings while protecting frontline services.

Richmond Council said it will continue to examine the Government's detailed funding models ahead of the final settlement next month, including the Fair Funding Assessment, consolidated grants and proposed business rates reforms.

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The authority will also continue working with London Councils, Government officials and sector partners as it seeks long-term financial sustainability for local services.