Bath and North East Somerset councillors are set to vote on a proposed 4.99% increase in council tax as part of the 2026/27 budget plans. The council’s cabinet approved the proposal on February 12, and it will be presented to the full council for final approval on February 24.
Mark Elliott, Cabinet Member for Resources, explained that the council faces significant challenges, including a £12.5 million reduction in government funding over the next three years alongside growing social care demands. “I’m proud to present a balanced budget that, despite funding cuts, protects frontline services and invests in what matters to our residents,” Elliott said.
This 4.99% rise is the maximum allowed without requiring government approval or a public referendum. For the average Band D household, this equates to an additional £90.97 annually, or £1.75 per week.
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Elliott highlighted that Bath and North East Somerset currently has the third lowest council tax among South West unitary authorities. Even after North Somerset’s anticipated 9% increase, Bath and North East Somerset will remain one of the lowest charging authorities in the region. “Despite this, we are not forced to implement the severe service cuts seen in other areas,” he added.
Most local authorities facing social care pressures are also planning 4.99% increases. Elliott noted that the expected rise will generate around £6.5 million—almost covering the additional costs in social services. “This tax rise essentially addresses the financial pressure on social care,” he said.
The council is also investing in prevention initiatives to improve outcomes and reduce long-term costs. A £500,000 project will provide grants to foster carers for home adaptations, enabling more children to stay within family homes rather than care facilities. Additionally, £35,000 will support early intervention efforts to prevent harm, including work targeting those at risk of domestic abuse. Manda Rigby, Cabinet Member for Communications and Community, stated, “Prevention is the most effective and cost-efficient way to reduce long-term demand on our services.”
The government’s ongoing “fair funding review” has cut Bath and North East Somerset’s central funding by £2.42 million for 2026/27, rising to £12.5 million over three years. Elliott criticized this approach: “The government reduces central funding and then expects councils to fill the gap through council tax increases.”
The full council meeting to decide on the tax rise and budget is scheduled for 6.30 pm on February 24 at Bath’s Guildhall.