Category : Council Budget


WMCA Closes £120 Million Budget Gap Without Tax Hikes

Finance officials announced the West Midlands Combined Authority has successfully closed a projected £120 million revenue deficit for 2026/27 without implementing a mayoral precept on council tax or cutting transport budgets.

Solihull Council Clashes Over Future 9.99% Tax Rise Plans

Solihull councillors clash over potential council tax increases, with a 4.99% rise this year and warnings of up to 9.99% hikes in 2027/28 and 2028/29. The Conservative-led council faces budget challenges amid national funding reforms.

Birmingham Budget Row: 'Smoke and Mirrors' Claim

Birmingham's Labour council unveils its 2026/27 budget, claiming to have closed a £300m gap and shed its 'bankrupt' tag, but opposition councillors dismiss it as deceptive amid ongoing service cuts and tax hikes.

Birmingham Council Tax Rise: 5% Increase Proposed

Birmingham City Council has advanced plans for a 4.99% council tax increase for 2026/27, potentially raising Band D bills by over £116. The Labour-run authority claims it has closed a £300 million budget gap.

New EV Mileage Tax Announced by Rachel Reeves

Chancellor Rachel Reeves confirms a new pay-per-mile tax for electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles, set to begin in April 2028, sparking debate over fairness and cost-of-living impacts.

New £200 Crisis Fund for Households Announced

The Government has confirmed a new £200 Crisis and Resilience Fund to replace the Household Support Fund from April, offering cash payments for essentials like food and energy bills.

£147 Bill Hike for Households from April

Millions of households will see water and council tax bills increase by £147 annually from April, though energy bill reductions and benefit rises may offset some costs.

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