Bury residents are facing a 5% rise in council tax bills from April. This increase is part of budget proposals aimed at balancing finances while protecting essential services.
The council is trying to balance its budget for the next year. They’ve managed to cut a big financial gap from £19.5 million down to £5.8 million.
If the budget gets the green light on February 19, a typical Band D property will see its bill rise from £2,289 to £2,414. That’s an extra £125 for each household.
The council credits better funding from the government and some one-off grants for this improvement. They’re also looking at smarter ways to manage contracts and reduce care costs.
They plan to boost income through fees and charges, plus some staffing efficiencies. They might even dip into cash reserves to cover the rest of the gap.
Coun Eamonn O’Brien, the council leader, mentioned that while things look better, challenges still lie ahead. He pointed out that demand for services, especially in social care, is skyrocketing.
Bury still gets less funding compared to other councils, which is a constant struggle. O’Brien emphasized the need for a new funding model to help local government.
The council will finalize the budget on February 19, but first, it will be reviewed by the cabinet and scrutiny committee. One idea on the table is to charge a flat £2 fee at 40 currently free car parks.
This could affect towns like Prestwich, Radcliffe, Whitefield, Tottington, and Ramsbottom, but they want to keep the towns lively.
Opposition leader Coun Russell Bernstein raised concerns about how the budget will help vulnerable residents and local businesses. He highlighted the impact of cuts to the winter fuel allowance for pensioners.
He also mentioned that businesses are struggling with rising National Insurance costs and need support. Bernstein criticized the idea of charging for parking, saying it could deter visitors.
The budget plans include a 2.99% rise for general services and an additional 2% specifically for adult social care. The current inflation rate in the UK is 2.5%.
