Birmingham councillors approved cuts amid protests and rat concerns. Tax up, services down post ’23 bankruptcy.
Councillors voted on the 2025/26 budget, which includes big cuts to local services. They want savings of about £150 million. The council is Labour-run and plans to raise council tax by 7.5%. Last year’s rise was nearly 10%.
Fees for council services will also increase adding to financial challenges faced by residents. The council declared bankruptcy in 2023, and this is their second budget since then. Protests happened outside, like in 2024, reflecting public anger.
The crisis impacts many services, including bins, culture, and libraries. Parks, street lights, and social care are affected too, leading to concerns about community well-being. Auditors found issues that led to the problems; equal pay claims and poor IT were factors. Funding cuts also contributed to this situation, similar to what other councils across the country face.
Striking bin workers and residents protested cuts outside the council building. Refuse workers began striking in January; they opposed the scrapping of a recycling role. A union leader said they have public support and aren’t trying to hold the city hostage. One resident criticized the council’s handling of day center closures, reflecting widespread dissatisfaction.
Trash and rats are a big concern due to the ongoing bin strike. A councillor mentioned higher taxes with fewer services, adding that litter discourages investment. Another councillor cited “rats the size of cats” as a stark example of the problem. Conservatives proposed a budget alternative, aiming to protect essential services.
Elections are coming next year, and opposition councillors predicted problems for Labour. One said Labour’s time in power is ending, while another argued voters will see their courage. The council leader blamed funding cuts over the past 14 years. He says his council works well with Labour ministers.
The council leader apologized to residents and said the council is improving now. He apologized for the council tax increase and promised it won’t happen again next year. Council tax will rise by 7.5% in 2025/26, after rising nearly 10% last year. He said they stand with the people, knowing there is still much to do.