Council tax rates are rising across England, with Essex confirming a 3.75% increase for the upcoming financial year.
Nearly 9 in 10 councils will raise taxes by 4.99%. This is the most allowed without a local vote. Over 9 in 10 will raise it by 4.5% or more in April. Over two-thirds of top councils raise bills by the max, again.
This is the third straight year for them. Only nine councils raise bills by less than 4.5%. Sunderland chose a 4.49% increase. Kensington & Chelsea’s rise is 4.00%. Doncaster and Derby both opted for 3.99%.
North East Lincolnshire will increase bills by 3.98%. Essex will rise by 3.75% and Rotherham by 3.00%. Lincolnshire’s bills will increase by 2.99%. Wandsworth has the lowest increase at 2.00%. This is a freeze on the main tax element.
It’s their third year doing this. The council cites sound financial management. Most people in England will face maximum tax increases though. The 4.99% cap is used for three years. It includes a 2% social care charge. Most councils have raised taxes maximally each year.
All North West councils raise to the limit, except one. Warrington chose 4.98%. Trafford was allowed a 7.49% increase by the government. All South East councils approved a 4.99% rise or more. Windsor & Maidenhead will increase by 8.99%. Essex is the only East of England council under the cap. Other exceptions exist in the East Midlands.
Coventry’s increase is 4.90%. It is the only West Midlands area below the limit. Birmingham can raise bills by 7.49%, government approved. Most South West councils raise taxes to the max or above. Only three London councils opted for less than 4.99%.
They include Wandsworth and Kensington & Chelsea. Newham received permission for an 8.99% increase. Local finances are struggling.
The government gave aid to 30 councils this year. They helped eight councils balance books prior. Council leaders faced questions on tax issues. A government spokesperson said councils should think of taxpayers first. They maintain a tax increase limit to protect people. Taxpayers should have a say.
The Local Government Association says councils face pressures. They must increase bills to fund services people need. Council tax cannot meet all financial needs. The funding levels differ by region.