Overview
- Buckinghamshire and Suffolk set out plans for the maximum 4.99% rise, joining a wave of authorities drafting inflation-beating increases for April.
- Hillingdon warns it cannot balance its budget without Exceptional Financial Support, approves a 4.99% rise in principle and a 10% uplift to discretionary fees, and flags Section 114 risk.
- North Somerset and Warrington say they may seek permission to exceed the cap, reflecting deep shortfalls despite wider savings and income measures under consultation.
- Reform UK–led councils propose increases below the cap, with Kent at 3.99% and Staffordshire at 3.99%, drawing criticism over pre‑election tax‑cut pledges.
- Welsh councils outline varied paths, with Neath Port Talbot proposing 3.5%, Bridgend 4.95%, and Swansea consulting on its rise as extra Welsh Government funding narrows gaps.