Blaenau Gwent Council has this week approved its budget which continues to protect key services, support vulnerable residents, and keeps the Council Tax rise as low as possible at 3.75%.
With constructive working between members of the Labour and Independent groups, the Council Tax increase is lower than originally planned, demonstrating a shared commitment from political leaders to minimise the impact on households in Blaenau Gwent. An improved funding settlement from Welsh Government, together with a range of efficiencies.
The revenue budget, alongside the capital programme, will deliver increased investment for schools, environmental services, and highways, while maintaining support for the most vulnerable in the community.
Council Leader Steve Thomas said:
“I’m pleased that Full Council has approved a fair and responsible budget that protects key services and reflects what residents told us was important.
“The 3.75% Council Tax rise is significantly lower than our planning assumption and is likely to be one of the lowest increases in Wales. It has been achieved through improved funding, careful financial management, and a commitment to keep any rise as low as possible in a very challenging climate.”
Leader of the Independent Group, Cllr Wayne Hodgins, said:
“This budget shows what can be achieved through genuine collaboration, and putting people before politics. The budget maintains the services that residents rely on most, increases investment in schools and highways, and provides meaningful support for those facing financial hardship through the Council Tax Reduction Scheme.”
Budget highlights include:
- Protection of frontline services, with no service cuts
- £3 million in efficiencies delivered through the Bridging the Gap programme and collaboration with Torfaen Council
- A 10% increase in school funding
- £11million allocated for the Council Tax Reduction Scheme to support households most in need
- A Council Tax rise equating to 97p per week for Band A properties and £1.13 per week for Band B—the most common property bands in the borough
