Herefordshire Council has approved the 2019/20 budget today, February 15th, which includes the setting of Herefordshire Council tax rates which will come into effect from April, 2019.

The Medium Term Financial Strategy for 2019/20 to 2021/22 was also approved today which outlines the measures Herefordshire Council has taken since 2010 to deliver savings, and provides a financial forecast up to 2021/22. Central government’s Revenue Support Grant has reduced from £60.1m in 2010/11 to £0.6m in 2019/20, forcing Herefordshire Council to deliver £90m of savings since 2010. Herefordshire Council said “Despite these financial challenges, the council continues to deliver a balanced budget and has increased general and earmarked reserves.

“Around 70% of Herefordshire Council’s main income stream comes from Council Tax. To achieve a budget contribution of just over £104m for 2019/20, a 4.9% Council Tax increase has been approved. The increase will be made from a core Council Tax increase of 2.9% and a 2% increase to the precept ring-fenced for the delivery of adult social care.

“An average band D property will now pay Council Tax at £126.23 per month (over 12 months). This tax rate excludes the individual precepts set by each parish council, West Mercia Police and Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service which will be decided in March 2019.

“Some residents may be eligible for a Council Tax Reduction, or even pay nothing in certain circumstances (such as young adults who have left care). Those who are still experiencing financial difficulty may be entitled to a hardship payment.”

More information is available on the Herefordshire Council website at www.herefordshire.gov.uk/counciltax.