Richmond council tax to increase 5%, reaching £2,372 yearly. The new budget tackles social care and boosts local services.
Richmond Council passed next year’s budget and will spend £197.5 million on local services. A council member said the budget helps those most in need and also maintains financial stability.
The budget addresses social care pressures and delivers key priorities for everyone. It also invests in the borough’s infrastructure, as council leaders want Richmond to stay the best borough.
The council tax will rise 4.99 percent, which is the maximum allowed without a vote. General use will increase 2.99 percent, while adult social care will increase by 2 percent.
Richmond’s Band D homes will see a £2,372 tax. The council’s part rises to £1,882, up £89. The Mayor of London’s share will rise £19 to £490, helping to fund police, fire services, and transport.
Council officers said the rise manages finances well, citing social care and homelessness demands. Inflation also adds pressure to the costs, with long-term funding cuts also occurring.
The budget includes £7 million for adult social care, covering increased home care and mental health needs. Another £2.2 million goes to children’s services, helping with placement costs and transport.
Also, £600,000 funds temporary housing for the homeless, while a further £300,000 improves waste and cleaning. The council will spend £12.9 million on roads over three years.
The council found £6.8 million in savings, easing budget issues in 2025/26 by boosting service efficiency. Lower procurement costs will help, while modernization of services brings a £1.7 million saving.
Opposition councillors worry about the direction, feeling the council relies too much on reserves. They noted many projects face delays and carry over from previous years.
A councillor cited slow progress on Twickenham Riverside’s revamp. She saw good plans amidst poor budget planning, believing reserves fill financial holes.
However, a council member defended the budget’s choices, stating it is balanced and avoids service cuts. It addresses social care pressures, too, with substantial investments.
The council leader believes Richmond is the best borough and called the council tax system “unfair.” Rates use 1991 house values, and he noted rich people may pay less tax.
A mansion owner might pay less than flat residents. The council shared tax amounts for 2025/26, including London’s Mayor’s share: Band A will pay £1,581; Band B will pay £1,845; Band C will pay £2,109; and Band D will pay £2,372.
Band E will pay £2,899; Band F will pay £3,426; Band G will pay £3,953; and Band H will pay £4,744.
Richmond has a new weekly banding scheme, where low-income residents get council tax support. Weekly income decides the discounts received, and some get up to 100 percent off. This changes support for some residents.