Mark Whitehead 13 June 2023

Council tax up nearly 80% in three decades

Council tax up nearly 80% in three decades image
Image: ShaunWilkinson / Shutterstock.com.

Council tax has increased by 79% in real terms on average since it was introduced 30 years ago, according to new figures.

The TaxPayers' Alliance says a typical band D property occupier must now pay £2,065 compared to £568 in 1993-94.

Its research shows there have been 9,462 individual council tax increases, compared to only 404 freezes and 363 cuts, while 57% of authorities have never reduced the charge.

The Local Government Association (LGA) pointed out that Whitehall has relied on councils raising their own taxes to fund their spending on rising demand for services.

A spokesman for the LGA said: 'In recent years, the Government has relied on council tax raising powers to increase councils’ core spending power.

'Faced with the increased cost of providing local services and rising demand for support, councils have faced the tough choice about whether to increase bills to bring in desperately needed funding to protect services at the same time as being acutely aware of the significant burden that could place on some households.

'While council tax is an important funding stream, it is not the solution to the long-term pressures facing councils.

'Councils want to work with Government on a long-term funding plan which ensures they have adequate resources, certainty and freedoms to deliver local services.'

Sign up here to receive our free daily news and jobs bulletin.

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Waste Collection Manager

Middlesbrough Council
£41,771 - £44,075
We have an exciting role on offer within our Environmental Services as a Waste Collection Manager. Middlesbrough, North Yorkshire
Recuriter: Middlesbrough Council

Receptionist / Administrator

Middlesbrough Council
£26,403
Do you have excellent attention to detail and strong communication skills? Middlesbrough, North Yorkshire
Recuriter: Middlesbrough Council

Car Parking Notice Processing Officer

Middlesbrough Council
£27,254 - £28,142
We have an exciting role on offer within our Resident and Business Support team as a Car Parking Notice Processing Officer. Middlesbrough, North Yorkshire
Recuriter: Middlesbrough Council

Senior Supervisor

Derbyshire County Council
Grade 11 £39,865 - £43,270 per annum
Join our Highways Operations Service as a Senior Supervisor and play a key role in keeping our county moving. Derbyshire
Recuriter: Derbyshire County Council

Compliance and Works Coordination Manager

Derbyshire County Council
Grade 12 £44,433 - 47,925 per annum
This role is central to ensuring that all highway activities are delivered safely, efficiently, and in full compliance. Derbyshire
Recuriter: Derbyshire County Council
Linkedin Banner