Cotswold District Council has announced that its financial position remains healthy and secure, eliminating any need for a government bailout. This assurance comes after councillors approved the council’s budget for the upcoming financial year.
Residents of the Cotswold District will see a 3.14 percent increase in council service charges starting in April. Despite this rise, council finance officers emphasize that the authority’s finances are both stable and secure, unlike other councils currently seeking emergency financial support.
The council’s general fund reserves stand strong at £1.76 million. In addition, £2 million has been allocated to support local government reorganization within the county, while £2.2 million is being transferred from revenue funds to invest in capital projects.
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A capital program worth £10.5 million has been approved, featuring significant investments such as upgrading the waste and recycling fleet. This marks the district’s most ambitious decarbonization effort to date, including the introduction of its first electric refuse vehicle.
Beyond environmental projects, the budget allocates funds for leisure center improvements, affordable housing initiatives, digital service enhancements, and essential infrastructure upgrades.
Finance cabinet member Patrick Coleman (LD, Stratton) highlighted a proposed £5 increase for Band D properties and welcomed the multi-year local government financial settlement, though he expressed concerns over late adjustments that reduced the council’s funding by £700,000 across two upcoming financial years.
The Conservative group proposed two budget amendments: creating a £190,000 legacy fund to distribute £5,000 to each ward councillor plus £20,000 for administrative costs, and reducing the communications budget from £380,000 to £300,000 annually. Tory group leader Tom Stowe (C, Campden-Vale) argued the legacy fund would benefit projects like youth activities, public realm enhancements, and biodiversity efforts. However, both amendments were rejected by the council.
In the final vote, the budget passed with 21 votes in favor, six against, and one abstention.
David Stanley, deputy chief executive and Section 151 Officer, affirmed the council’s responsible financial strategy: “Through diligent management, we have safeguarded essential services, bolstered our reserves, and avoided borrowing to finance our capital investments.”
He added, “At a time when many councils are under severe financial strain, our strong financial management and focus on sustainability provide a stable foundation for planning and adapting to future challenges. Every part of this budget reflects our commitment to leaving a lasting legacy for residents, communities, and the future unitary authority.”