Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council Puts Forward 1.99% Tax Increase

Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council has put forward a proposal to raise its portion of council tax by 1.99% for the upcoming year. The council indicated that this suggested increase would amount to 7p or less weekly for the majority of residents, given that most reside in properties classified under Band A to C. Council leader Simon Tagg stated that the authority remains committed to “prioritise the delivery of local services, while working hard to keep our council tax increases as low as possible”. The council’s preliminary budget outlines a commitment to ongoing investment in frontline services and to finance the legal proceedings against the operators of Walleys Quarry. The council affirmed that its budget was balanced and that it carried no debt, yet retained the capacity to invest within the locality. The proposed initiatives are set to sustain funding for the regeneration schemes at Ryecroft, Astley Place, and Midway, which the council anticipates will attract additional businesses to the area, building on the recent introduction of new homes, shops, and a hotel in the town centre. Furthermore, the authority noted that the budget incorporates proposals to develop the employment site at Chatterley Valley West in Kidsgrove, with the aim of enhancing footfall and stimulating passing trade. Stephen Sweeney, who serves as deputy leader of the council and cabinet member for finance, town centres and growth, commented: “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 further explained that the council has been able to “continue to focus on front line services that matter to residents” due to savings exceeding £1.1m achieved over the past three years, without resorting to any compulsory redundancies. The cabinet is scheduled to recommend its preliminary budget for the 2025-26 fiscal year, encompassing the proposed council tax increase, for endorsement by the full council early in the new year.