Fylde Council propose to raise their share of Council Tax by 2.99%

Fylde Council is proposing to raise their share of Council Tax by 2.99%.

For 2024/25, an increase 2.99% in the average council tax charge is proposed alongside a number of growth items as the Council focuses on investment in the borough and on delivering the priorities in the corporate plan. The capital growth proposals include: 

New safety fencing at Fairhaven Lake

Upgraded heat management system at the Councils fleet workshop and depot

Improvements to pathways at Ashton Gardens

A contribution to replace the roof at Freckleton community centre

The revenue budget proposals for 2024/25 are: 

In order to safeguard the Councils revenue position there are no new revenue growth items proposed for 2024/25

All of these will contribute to ensuring Fylde is a vibrant and thriving place to live and visit.

Cllr Karen Buckley, Leader of Fylde Council, said: “Over the last 12 months we have all faced increased costs whether that be in energy or our weekly food shop. The council is not immune to inflationary cost rises and is facing additional pressure on budgets due to wage increases across the sector, agency costs, increased homeless presentations and fleet and maintenance costs, to name but a few.

“The proposed increase in council tax of 2.99% is less than the current rate of inflation of 4% and, although any increase is unwelcome, it will be used to maintain our strong record of good quality statutory services right across the borough of Fylde.”

Cllr Ellie Gaunt, Lead Member for Finance & Resources, said: “We’ll be seeking final approval of our budget at our full council meeting at the beginning of March, and in the meantime, we welcome comments from stakeholders on the proposals.

“To help fund the proposed revenue budget, a 2.99% (equivalent to £6.54 for the next financial year for an average band D property) increase in our share of council tax bills is being proposed. This would represent less than a 13p increase per week per average household for the coming year. 

“The proposed council tax charge will ensure that we remain financially robust so that we can continue to invest in the frontline services that matter to residents and businesses across the borough, including waste and recycling collections; planning services; housing services; parks, leisure, and open spaces; street cleaning and environmental health.”

Feedback from all stakeholders received before 20 February 2024 will be considered at the budget-setting Council meeting of 4 March 2024. However, any further comments from the public received after 20 February but prior to the budget-setting Council meeting will be considered.

Feedback should be submitted by email using listening@fylde.gov.uk or by post to Budget Consultation Feedback, The Town Hall, Lytham St Annes, Lancashire, FY8 1LW.