Band 5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Essay on Public Funds: Coherence Issues and Balance
Sample Answer with Feedback

In the following passages, peoples view on the allocation of public funds, on only essential urban services such as healthcare, education and infrastructure is important or the investments in arts, culture and entertainment is also to be considered important will be discussed.

The urban services such as healthcare, education and infrastructure has a high priority for any city government. The healthcare plays a major role in keeping the people in the city healthy. Not having adequate funds for this faicilty could lead to people with poor health, which could also lead to below average functional city, due to people not being available to complete the daily funcations of the city. Futhermore, not having adequate funds assigned to this service will make the people of the city more vulnerable to pandemic situations. A good ex-sample would be the corona pandemic which required large scale support from the health sector to resolve it.

When we look into the education services, it is one of the utmost important services. Through education the society will be well organised, disciplined, knowledgeable and also it will have a strong community. Futhermore, many students might not have sufficent financial backup to complete their studies. Some of their patents might be doing a job that their parents also did as they did not have proper education or sufficent funds for their education. However, by government enhancing this service, everyone get an equal oppertunity be educated and choose a profession of their choice.

In order for a city to function proerly it also should focus on the infrastrucfture as well with equal imporatance as other two services discussed earlier. However, when it come to art and entertainment, this falls as secondary requirement. However, this city should focus on its cultural value as well in order for the city to thrive with its moral.

However, based on peoples requirement, the city government can always intergrate culture, art and entertainment to the three major esential services and reduce the cost involved to set up newplaces and and still keep its people happy.

The way city governments allocate public funds has a profound impact on the quality of urban life. While some argue that municipal budgets should focus exclusively on essential services such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure, others believe that arts, culture, and entertainment are equally vital for creating vibrant and inclusive cities. This essay will explore both perspectives before presenting my view that cultural investment is indispensable for sustainable urban development.

On one hand, prioritizing essential services is seen as a practical and ethical obligation. In densely populated cities, access to reliable healthcare, quality education, and efficient infrastructure is critical for public safety and economic productivity. Hospitals, schools, and transport systems form the backbone of urban functionality. Supporters of this view argue that cultural initiatives, while enriching, are secondary luxuries that can be supported through private sponsorship or ticket revenue. Especially in cities facing budget constraints or social inequality, allocating funds to basic services is often considered non-negotiable.

However, advocates for cultural spending emphasize its transformative power in urban settings. Public investment in museums, theaters, parks, and festivals not only enhances the city’s identity but also fosters emotional well-being, creativity, and social cohesion. Cultural spaces provide platforms for dialogue, inclusion, and civic pride — particularly in diverse and marginalized communities. Moreover, arts and entertainment stimulate local economies through tourism, job creation, and small business growth. A city that neglects its cultural life may become efficient but emotionally disconnected, lacking inspiration and shared meaning.

In conclusion, while essential services must remain a priority, I firmly believe that arts and culture are integral to a thriving urban environment. A well-balanced city budget should reflect both practical needs and the human desire for connection, creativity, and joy. Investing in cultural life is not a luxury — it is a strategic choice that enriches cities and strengthens their social fabric.