Wigan faces a likely 4.99pc council tax rise to address a £7.6 million budget gap and support local services.
Wigan is set to receive £141.2 million from the government as a support settlement for 2025/26, a significant increase of £26.4 million from last year’s £114.2 million. Wigan also benefited from £7 million in recovery grants. This £7 million came from the government’s £600 million fund aimed at assisting struggling English councils.
While the increased funding for 2025/26 is welcome, it doesn’t fully compensate for past real-term cuts, and investment is still needed to address demand-led pressures. Consequently, the council must make adjustments to its budget.
Looking ahead, the council anticipates further savings requirements, needing £13.3 million by 2026/27 and £12.5 million by 2027/28. Wigan has not utilized its cash reserves, which are specifically designated for emergencies, for the 2025/26 budget.
The government is considering potential changes to funding allocation, possibly placing greater emphasis on deprivation when awarding grants, suggesting possible funding changes for Wigan in the future. Restructuring of business rates is also anticipated in the near future.
For the upcoming year, Wigan’s funds will come from two main sources. Business rates are projected to bring in £131.7 million, while council tax is expected to generate £153.2 million, combining for a total of £285 million.
Increased staff pay and National Insurance contributions will cost £11 million. However, the council anticipates energy savings of around £4 million.
Council services and facilities will also experience cost increases. Car park hourly fees will rise by 10p, and music lesson prices for schools will increase from £39 to £44 per hour per pupil.
Rental costs for orchestral string instruments will also increase, with yearly hire rising from £42 to £50. Dog owners will also face higher fees when reclaiming their pets.
The cost of picking up your dog will rise to £51, up from £50. Claiming your dog within 24 hours will cost £69.50, an increase from £68. After 24 hours, the cost is £14.40 per day, capped at seven kennel days.
Cremation costs are also on the rise in Wigan. Weekday adult cremations will increase to £896, while weekend cremations will cost £1,344. The price of a new black or recycling bin is now £51, and a full bin set costs £163, and these prices include delivery.