Cumberland Council is currently consulting on some of its budget proposals for 2024/25, and encourages as many people and organisations as possible to have their say.
The consultation looks at the council’s overall ambitions, the transformation plan designed to get the council onto a more financially sustainable footing, and then its council tax proposals for 2024/25.
In terms of council tax, the council is proposing a 4.99% rise – this is a 2.99% increase in the core council tax and a 2% rise specifically for the Adult Social Care levy.
This will amount to £1.66 a week extra for a Band D property. This will be £1.11 for band A and £1.29 for Band B etc.
Those most in need will be able to apply for help under the council tax reduction scheme which can reduce the amount people have to pay if they are eligible. More on this scheme can be found on our website or by calling customer services.
The council is also proposing a doubling of council tax for second homes, from 1 April 2025. This will raise £5m for the council at a time when the area faces housing shortages in some areas.
The consultation will be held primarily online and can be completed by going to consult.cumberland.gov.uk and following the links. The full direct URL is consult.cumberland.gov.uk/communications-and-marketing/budget-consultation/
Hard copy responses for those without digital access are available from our libraries and our front door receptions, or by calling 0300 373 3730. There is a Freepost address for returns, so no stamp is required.
The consultation is being carried out between the dates of 15 December 2023 and 12 January 2024. These are proposals, and the results of the consultation will be considered when final decisions are made by the Executive and then Council meeting in the new year.
