At last night’s budget-setting meeting, the Conservative Group on Bridgwater Town Council opposed the Labour-led council’s decision to approve a steep Council Tax increase. The group reiterated its call for a public consultation, arguing that residents deserve a say in decisions that significantly impact household budgets.
The approved budget will see the average Band D Council Tax bill rise to £413 a year—a staggering 352% increase over three years. Band A households will see their bills rise from £60 to £274. This means an additional £3.3 million annually taken from residents compared to three years ago. The town has already been listed among the top 50 councils with the highest Council Tax rates in the UK, out of more than 8,000 local councils.
Councillor Suria Aujla raised concerns about the Parks and Open Spaces budget, saying:
"We need to understand why resources are being unevenly allocated across the town and why next year’s budget is increasing so significantly after being reduced this year. Residents in many areas feel their open spaces are neglected."
Councillor Rachael Lilley questioned the rising costs at Bridgwater Arts Centre, stating:
"While I fully support the Arts Centre, taxpayers deserve assurances that it is being run efficiently. The current budget shows a tenfold increase in costs, and there’s a clear need for tighter management and a proper business plan moving forward."
Why the Conservatives Opposed the Budget
The Conservatives criticised Labour’s approach to the budget as out of touch with the financial realities faced by residents. Bridgwater has pockets of some of the highest levels of deprivation in the UK, and with 7,200 people in the constituency already living in a negative budget, the additional burden is untenable for many families.
Councillor Rodrigues added, “Labour councillors have ignored the struggles of hardworking families, pensioners, and residents on low incomes. They’ve pushed through one of the highest Council Tax rates in the country without listening to the people of Bridgwater.”
Missed Opportunity to Consult the Public
The Conservative Group has consistently called for public consultation to give residents the opportunity to voice their opinions and understand the council’s spending priorities. Labour rejected the Conservative motion for consultation.
“We believe the people of Bridgwater have a right to be involved in decisions that affect their finances so directly,” said Cllr Rodrigues. “This budget should have been preceded by a proper public consultation. Instead, Labour councillors shut down the chance for meaningful engagement.”
The Bigger Picture of Financial Strain
The Conservatives also highlighted the wider pressures facing residents, including:
- The recent decision by Somerset Council to reduce Council Tax Reduction Support, leaving thousands of working-age adults facing an extra £400 a year in bills.
- The loss of the Winter Fuel Allowance for more than 19,000 pensioners in Bridgwater constituency, adding to the challenge of staying warm this winter.
