Kirklees Council approves budget to secure services and invest in the future
Kirklees Council has approved its budget for the coming financial year, ensuring continued investment in vital services and the local economy.
Following a debate of all councillors on Wednesday 5th March, agreement was reached on a net revenue budget worth £396 million to fund everyday services like social care, bin collections and libraries. The council also committed to a £1.4 billion investment programme in the Kirklees economy and infrastructure over the next five years. This will support the ongoing regeneration work across the borough.
To help fund these services and investments, the budget includes a 2.99% increase in council tax, with an additional 2% specifically earmarked for social care. This means that a typical Band D property in Kirklees will see an increase of approximately £1.80 per week. The council tax rise is in line with increases expected across the country.
During the meeting, councillors debated and voted on amendments to the budget, which was originally proposed by the council’s Cabinet last month. The final budget additionally commits the council to reviewing sport and leisure provision in Dewsbury, seeking ways to bring Cleckheaton Town Hall into use and reshaping the later phases of the major Our Cultural Heart regeneration scheme in Huddersfield.
Cllr Carole Pattison, Leader of Kirklees Council, said:
“This year’s budget marks a turning point for Kirklees after years of financial uncertainty for councils across the country. Despite ongoing challenges for all councils, this budget strengthens our financial stability while protecting and improving the services residents rely on.”
“Our proposals fix the foundations of our budget after years of austerity, but they also look ahead to the future. The budget means we remain committed to building a thriving local economy that provides jobs and opportunities for generations to come.”