"The document states that the Reform administration is currently working on a "planning assumption" that bills will rise by 5%, which would add around 80 a year to the annual mid-range Band D rate. But it also warns the council is under "significant financial pressure", with the authority planning to make widespread cutbacks and ask the government for Exceptional Financial Support of 43m to help balance the books."
"Mr Wharton said the council is "keeping all our options open" and explained it would need permission from the secretary of state for any increase over 5%. "But there are some people out there who are quite happy to pay extra tax to fund public services - at this stage it's about incorporating everyone's views," he said. He added that he would "move heaven and earth" to keep rates down, and plans to focus on selling off assets like County Hall to provide further income."
Worcestershire County Council is consulting residents on the 2026/27 budget, inviting feedback by 1 November and presenting council tax options including rises up to 10%. The administration’s planning assumption is a 5% increase, adding about £80 a year for a mid-range Band D household, while warning of significant financial pressure and widespread cutbacks. The authority plans to request £43m of Exceptional Financial Support and previously borrowed £33m to avoid bankruptcy. Options to limit rates include selling assets such as County Hall. Worcestershire currently has the third lowest council tax at £1,615 for a Band D household.
Read at www.bbc.com
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