A PLANNED increase in council tax across North East Lincolnshire is set to be reduced, following a proposal from council leader, Cllr Philip Jackson.
His recommendation is that an initial proposed rise of 4.99% (which includes the 2% Adult Social Care precept) be reduced to 4.5%.
This was accepted by Cllr Jackson’s Cabinet at a meeting tonight (Wednesday 18 February). It will now be put to a vote at a Full Council meeting tomorrow (Thursday 19 February), where the whole budget is being discussed.
This new figure is lower than the Government’s approved limit for increases in council tax. Cllr Jackson says good financial management at North East Lincolnshire Council was a core reason for this recommendation.
“I am pleased to say that this council has reported a solid and stable financial position over the last 12 months, and we end the year with one of the most positive performances for some considerable time.
“This must be applauded. In the face of continued challenges for all local authorities in the country, here in North East Lincolnshire we have, and continue to, transform services, lead regeneration and drive change whilst being prudent and sensible in how we achieve all of this.”
Highlights in the full budget report include:
- The transformation of Children’s Services, which resulted in an extremely positive ILACS inspection in 2025. Building on this success, a revised improvement plan will further strengthen financial sustainability;
- The Government’s recent announcement to award local authorities with High Needs Stability Grants to support across-the-board deficits. This is the investment needed for the support of young people with SEND and has risen substantially across local authority areas;
- Continued transformation and targeted change in Adult Social Care as demand and complexity increases;
- A more commercial approach with all investments aligning to the council’s ethos to grow a strong and sustainable local economy;
- Major schemes, including the redevelopment of Freshney Place and those in Cleethorpes, are progressing well with finances kept under review to ensure ongoing viability of schemes and that borrowing remains affordable, sustainable and prudent.
Cllr Jackson said: “Despite a range of social, economic, and demand-related challenges, we remain focused on achieving financial sustainability by harnessing the area’s economic potential, expanding the local tax base, and delivering efficient, affordable public services.
“We do also understand the pressures on many households at the moment, and that is a reason for looking again at the level of the council tax increase here in North East Lincolnshire,” he added.
Read the full report at: 5.-Budget-and-Medium-Term-Financial-Plan.pdf
For people struggling to pay Council Tax, there is support available. Please go to Council Tax support | NELC
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