Funding for youth services across Shropshire is set to be axed from April 2018.

A report going to Cabinet today would see the current budget of £234,950 reduced to £135,000 – 43 per cent – and only be shared between six Local Joint Committees (LJCs).

These would include Whitchurch.

It would be a reduction from the 18 LJCs currently receiving funding because of the removal of rurality funding and, according to the report: “the refocusing of resources to the main market towns where the needs are greatest”.

George Candler, director of Place and Enterprise, said in his report: “With an eye on the long-term future, it is recommended that work is undertaken with a broad range of interested partners over the next 18 months to develop an integrated approach to the provision of universal and targeted youth activities within the context of a wider review of Early Help provision.”

Cabinet will be asked to confirm a public consultation on the matter.