Not so much glass half-empty or half-full as those hoping for a refill versus the permanently parched who know their only hope is to dig their own well. Well-digging, it must be said, has not always been a success for the sector – the likes of Thurrock and Woking will be digging their way out of holes for years to come.

So, what can we expect from next week's announcement, aside from defence secretary – and former local government minister – John Healey's department getting a wedge of cash?