MILLIONS FACE COUNCIL TAX HIKES – The government allowed six areas to bypass a 5% cap on increases
Millions of households in England face council tax increases beyond the usual limits after the government approved exceptions for six local authorities.
While councils with social care duties can typically raise taxes by up to 4.99% without a referendum, Bradford has been granted a 10% increase, with Newham, Windsor and Maidenhead allowed 9%. Birmingham, Somerset, and Trafford can raise bills by 7.5%.
Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner defended the move, stating that the increases are necessary to prevent these councils from sinking deeper into financial distress. However, the government rejected requests from some councils, including Hampshire, which had sought a 15% rise.
Local government funding will total over £69 billion this year—a 6.8% increase compared to 2024-25—ensuring no council faces a reduction in core spending power. Additional grants and funding support, including £2 billion for employer National Insurance contributions, will further assist local authorities in managing financial pressures.
