Council Shelves Car Park Charge Hike and Toilet Closure Plans

Carmarthenshire may avoid higher parking fees and likely won’t close public toilets, depending on approval of the new budget this month. A large council tax increase still seems probable though.

The Plaid Cymru-Independent cabinet agreed to budget changes, following feedback from over 2,900 people during a consultation. Despite this feedback, the 9.75% council tax rise remains.

Band D households may pay £1,759.07 in 2025-26, excluding police and community council fees. The council finalize spending plans on February 26.

Alun Lenny, speaking at a meeting on February 17, stated the tax increase is higher than desired but balances service protection and investment.

The council initially planned to raise parking fees above inflation, a move projected to gain £219,000 over three years. They also aimed to save £125,000 by transferring or closing toilets, considered £170,000 in road repair cuts, and £30,000 in flood defence savings. The cabinet reversed these plans after feedback.

The council gained £1.2 million from lower energy costs and plans to use £1 million to borrow money later, needing more funds for higher inflation and wages.

Cllr Lenny said the budget responds to consultation views while emphasizing risks within the overall budget strategy. He noted uncertainties around wage increases and inflation, alongside delivery risks in savings from adult social care.

The council, like other Welsh councils, faces demographic pressure and inflationary costs. To balance costs, they anticipate extra funding from the Welsh government while implementing savings, tax hikes, and fee increases. Employers also face higher national insurance payments from April.

Darren Price stated a £3.5 million bill exists for commissioned workers’ contributions, saying that without this bill, the tax increase would be 6.25%. He called this the “stark reality.”

The 2025-26 budget avoids £3.5 million in school savings, as stated in the report, which is only possible with higher council taxes.

Day-to-day expenses may reach £524.6 million next year, covering areas such as education and waste pickup. This amount is almost £35 million more than this year.