Wales: CIPFA reveals biggest council tax hike in 15 years

Householders across Wales are set to see an average council tax increase of 6.5% (£97.01) - the steepest climb in 15 years, according to the Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy (CIPFA)

CIPFA’s council tax survey also finds the significant gap between the increases in different parts of Wales. The average band D equivalent in South Wales has seen an increase of 5.7%, whereas mid and west Wales face a striking 8.1% increase in their council tax bills.

Local police and crime commissioners across Wales are collectively increasing the police precept included in the council tax bill, which is rising by 9.1%.

The survey shows that mid and west Wales will see a sharper increase in all areas; local requirement, police precepts and the average band D equivalent.

Rob Whiteman, CIPFA Chief Executive, said:

“This substantial rise in council tax across Wales reflects the enormous financial pressures many local authorities and police across the regions are currently facing. Having lost nearly 50% of the grants received from central government, it is unsurprising that councils are seeking to increase their council tax take with the cost of running local services being passed onto households.

“Such rises in council tax also raise serious questions over the ability of the tax to provide a long-term funding solutions. Further reform must be considered beyond the revaluation made in Wales in 2003.

“There must be sustainable and sufficient support from government for funding solutions for local authorities that take into account the huge range of services they provide. This will ensure that libraries and youth services, which have been either lost or transformed, can be rejuvenated. Far more work must be done to ensure councils can provide the best public services, and outcomes, to citizens.”