South Gloucestershire Council

Published: 13/02/2013

In the authority’s first budget proposals since moving to a committee system last May, committee members recommended a budget of £189 million for 2013/14, with council tax for a Band D property to be set at £1,245.20.

The proposals, which were agreed unanimously by the authority’s three political groups, will be considered at full Council later this month prior to implementation in April 2013.

Leader of the council’s Conservative Group Cllr John Calway said: "South Gloucestershire’s part of the council tax is one household item that does not have to increase because of our plan to freeze it, whilst at the same time protecting the value-for-money frontline services that our residents demand. As a result, the average Band D household is on course to have saved £139 on their council tax bill over 3 years."

Leader of the council’s Liberal Democrat Group Cllr Ruth Davis said: “This budget will see the protection of our vital services, and allow us to plan for the future. I’m pleased we were able to address the priorities of all three parties.”

Leader of the council’s Labour Group Cllr Andy Perkins said: “I am pleased that key Labour proposals have made their way into the agreed package. Bringing in the Living Wage, keeping our Housing Benefit team fully staffed and freezing the Council Tax are all measures that should help those struggling with their finances.”

The proposed spending commitments will be met by freezing the council’s inflation provisions for 2013/14. This will reduce its council tax increase requirements and in turn allow it to access a government grant that will allow council tax to be frozen for a third year.

The full Council meeting takes place at 7pm on 20 February, at the council’s Kingswood Civic Centre. The meeting is open to members of the public and copies of papers will be published in advance on the council’s website at www.southglos.gov.uk