Council tax rise of almost 5% proposed amid cuts

Council tax could rise by almost 5% and some services could be reduced if Calderdale Council's budget for the coming year gets the go-ahead.

Senior councillors have proposed reducing the cost of some social care packages and targeted youth work, while some charges would rise including for the removal of bulky and garden waste.

Parking charges are also likely to increase, to help balance a budget deficit of £3m for 2025/26.

Council leader Jane Scullion said high costs of providing social care, a continuing legacy from Covid and high inflation had taken a toll but the council "remained ambitious".

The council said the increase of 4.99% comprised a council tax increase of 2.99% in line with the limit set by government and an additional 2% social care precept.

This is to pay for social care services for vulnerable adults and children.

Savings proposed by the cabinet include reducing adult social care package assessments, reviewing in-house mental health provision and moving to a digital-first strategy, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

Meanwhile, investment could be reduced for Shibden Hall and Victoria Theatre in Halifax, but councillors noted these had seen success with an increase in visitor numbers and seat sales respectively.

Scullion said: "We are proud of our record of robust financial management and low borrowing during some incredibly challenging financial times.

"These will not change overnight, and we will have to continue to make difficult decisions so that we can set a sustainable budget.

"We have included in this year's proposals plans which will allow us to strengthen our resilience by starting to replenish our reserves so that we can protect the services our communities depend upon now and into the future."

The proposals will go to public consultation and residents are able to have their say online by 2 February.

Alternatively feedback can be given by post or email until 5 February.

Councillors will meet to set the budget on 24 February.

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