The Warrington Borough Council is anticipating a substantial council tax revenue of nearly £135 million for the fiscal year 2025-26. This projection is a part of the council’s 2025-26 medium-term financial plan, draft revenue budget, and capital programme, which are all slated for approval during the upcoming full council meeting on Monday.
The proposed budget includes a 4.98 per cent increase in council tax, aiming to boost the council’s revenue streams. In the previous year, the council had estimated that council tax would generate £127.636 million in 2024-25, assuming full collection. However, recent data indicates that the council has already collected £139.5 million to date, surpassing the initial forecast.
Despite the impressive collection figures, the council acknowledges that there is often a variance between the billed amount and the actual amount collected. This disparity can be attributed to several factors, including assumptions about new properties, estimates of single-person discounts, assessments of empty properties and second homes, varied payment methods such as direct debit or deferred payments, and instances where debts remain unpaid due to unavoidable circumstances.
A council spokesperson emphasized, “We have collected 88.59 per cent of the total amount billed so far, with outstanding payments expected in February and March. Overall, council tax collection rates in Warrington remain high, reflecting the council’s commitment to financial sustainability.”
Moreover, the council reassures the public that it typically recovers more than 99 per cent of all council tax billed, boasting one of the highest collection rates in the north-west region. This reliability in revenue generation underscores the critical role that council tax plays in financing essential services that benefit the community.
When inquired about the projected council tax revenue for 2025-26, a spokesperson clarified, “The proposed council tax precept for the upcoming fiscal year is £134.971 million. Council tax serves as our primary funding source, contributing significantly to the operation of vital day-to-day services like waste management, maintenance of public spaces, and support for vulnerable populations.”
Furthermore, the spokesperson elaborated on the pivotal role of council tax in funding social services that cater to the needs of residents, including programs that aid older individuals in independent living, support families during crises, and provide assistance to individuals with disabilities or health conditions. The essence of council tax, therefore, lies in its contribution to the well-being and welfare of the community, ensuring that essential services are accessible to those who require assistance the most.
In essence, the council’s robust financial planning and efficient revenue collection mechanisms underscore its dedication to serving the Warrington community effectively. The anticipated council tax revenue for 2025-26 not only reflects the council’s fiscal prudence but also emphasizes its commitment to delivering essential services that uphold the quality of life for all residents.