Borough council proposes 1.99% tax hike

Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council has proposed increasing its share of council tax by 1.99% next year.

The authority said the proposed rise would equate to 7p or less per week for most residents, as the majority live in properties in Band A to C.

Council leader Simon Tagg said the authority continued to "prioritise the delivery of local services, while working hard to keep our council tax increases as low as possible".

The council's draft budget pledged to continue to invest in frontline services, as well as funding the legal action against the operators of Walleys Quarry.

The council insisted it had balanced its budget and remained debt-free, while still being able to invest in the area.

The proposed plans will maintain the funding of the regeneration projects at Ryecroft, Astley Place and Midway, which the council hopes will bring more business to the area, following the addition of new homes, shops and a hotel to the town centre.

The authority added that the budget also included plans to develop the employment site at Chatterley Valley West in Kidsgrove, in order to increase footfall and boost passing trade.

Deputy leader of the council and cabinet member for finance, town centres and growth Stephen Sweeney said: "With wage rises, increasing energy costs and other financial pressures, local authorities have to be focused on what they do to make every penny count".

He added that the council was able to "continue to focus on front line services that matter to residents" as over the last three years it had saved more than £1.1m, without any compulsory redundancies.

The cabinet will recommend its draft budget for 2025-26, including the council tax increase, for approval to the full council in the new year.

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