Cotswold District Council has affirmed that its finances are secure and stable, dismissing concerns about needing a government bailout. This assurance comes following the recent approval of the council’s budget for the upcoming financial year.
Starting in April, local taxpayers will see a 3.14 percent increase in council service charges. Despite this rise, finance leaders emphasize that the council remains on solid financial ground and will not require exceptional financial support, unlike some other councils currently seeking bailouts.
The council’s general fund reserves stand robustly at £1.76 million. An additional £2 million is earmarked for the ongoing local government reorganisation within the county, while £2.2 million is being reallocated from revenue to support capital projects.
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A key element of the budget is a £10.5 million capital programme, which prioritizes investment in areas including waste and recycling services. Notably, this programme features the district’s largest decarbonisation initiative to date, introducing the first electric refuse vehicle to the fleet.
Alongside environmental advances, the budget also supports enhancements to leisure centres, affordable housing initiatives, digital service improvements, and essential infrastructure projects.
Finance Cabinet Member Patrick Coleman (LD, Stratton) presented the budget, highlighting a proposed £5 increase for Band D properties. While welcoming the arrival of a multi-year local government financial settlement, Coleman criticized last-minute cuts that reduced funding by £700,000 for two forthcoming financial years.
The Conservative group proposed amendments, including the creation of a £190,000 legacy fund to distribute funds evenly across wards, and a reduction of the communications budget from £380,000 to £300,000 annually. Tory Group Leader Tom Stowe (C, Campden-Vale) advocated for the legacy fund to support community activities, public realm enhancements, and biodiversity efforts. However, these proposals were rejected by the council in a vote of 21 to 7.
Ultimately, the council passed the budget with a vote of 21 in favor, six against, and one abstention.
Deputy Chief Executive and Section 151 Officer David Stanley praised the budget’s foundation, noting that disciplined financial management has allowed the council to protect vital services, increase reserves, and avoid borrowing for capital projects.
“At a time when many councils face significant financial challenges, Cotswold’s robust position reflects strong stewardship and an emphasis on long-term sustainability,” Stanley stated. “While medium-term challenges persist, this budget provides a firm platform to plan ahead, ensuring every investment contributes to a lasting legacy for residents and the future unitary authority.”