At its meeting on Thursday 23 February, Central Bedfordshire’s Council agreed its annual budget which will see further investment in services and no increase in its share of Council Tax. 

Despite a challenging financial climate caused by rising inflation and increasing demand for services, the Council’s prudent approach to money management means the financial pressures can be absorbed.

The budget does not include any cuts to services and has more funding to support for vulnerable children and adults. The budget also includes plans to invest in new facilities such as new care homes, schools, roads and leisure centres. 

Following the meeting of Full Council, the Executive Member for Corporate Resources, Councillor David Shelvey, explained: “We are mindful of the rising costs our residents are currently facing. Careful budget management over several years means it is possible for us to continue to provide the vital services residents expect from us and freeze our share of Council Tax at a time when it matters most.”

“Not only are we freezing Council Tax, we’ve also increased the amount of support available to those on low incomes who struggle to pay their Council Tax. The changes could see approximately 10,000 residents pay no Council Tax at all, and around 3,000 pay less than they do now.”

The Council Tax Support Scheme sets out how working age residents, people with disabilities and carers on low incomes can claim a reduction on their Council Tax. The new changes were agreed in January and will come into effect from April 2023.  

Check online to see if you are eligible at www.centralbedfordshire.gov.uk/council-tax-support or by calling 0300 300 8306.