Government funding to aid Richmond Council’s response to COVID-19 is estimated to fall short by more than £6m

That’s according to council leaders who are urging MPs to speak up for the borough ahead of a spending review today.

Funding problems are said to be further compounded by a £40m cut in Government grants over the past decade.

The council is forecasting one of the biggest budget gaps in its history at £11 million for the next financial year.