Council tax bills are set to increase for millions of households across England, Scotland, and Wales this April.
Although the government will increase its funding to local councils for 2025/26, the Local Government Association has stated that council finances are still facing "extremely challenging" conditions.
In England, councils with social care responsibilities can raise council tax by up to 4.99% each year without holding a referendum, while smaller councils without social care duties can increase bills by up to 2.99%.
But for 2025-26, the government has allowed six areas to exceed the 4.99% limit. So, what does this mean for council tax increases in the East Midlands? We've compiled a list of the 10 local councils to find out.
The following are ranked from lowest to highest increase, with details on whether the rises are proposed (i.e., still pending approval) or confirmed as of writing.
9. Rutland (4.99% proposed)
Rutland County Council is recommending a 4.99% increase in council tax for 2025/26, in line with the government's national cap. This increase is due to financial difficulties and is expected to be approved by the full council later in February 2025. | gb27photo - stock.adobe.com
10. West Northamptonshire (4.99% proposed)
West Northamptonshire’s budget for 2025/26 includes a council tax increase of 4.99%, expected to generate extra funding of around £19.2m – with 2% of the increase going towards funding adult social care and representing an average increase on a Band D property of £88.73 a year, the equivalent of £1.71 a week. | SakhanPhotography - stock.adobe.com