BASINGSTOKE and Deane Borough Council (BDBC) will not increase its share of council tax, but residents will still see an increase.

During a full council meeting held on Thursday, February 23 councillors approved plans that will see a freeze on BDBC's precept.

The Band D council tax requirement for the borough for the next financial year will remain at £136.42.

Council tax for Basingstoke residents comprises of four components – Hampshire County Council (75.5 per cent), Basingstoke and Deane (7.5 per cent), police (13 per cent) and fire and rescue (four per cent).

READ MORE: Freeze on council tax and car parking in Basingstoke budget proposals

HCC councillors have approved a 4.99 per cent increase, which will mean £69.40 a year on council tax. Meanwhile, Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary have agreed to put up their bills by £15 on average and Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Services an average of £5.

Introducing the budget Cllr John Izett, the cabinet member for finance and property, said: "If this budget is approved it will stay at £2.60 per week and I am happy to support our plans to freeze our part of council tax as well as providing significant finical help in the face of the cost-of-living crisis."

SEE MORE: Basingstoke Labour leader Cllr McCormick hits out at budget proposal

He said the budget "ensures sanity" with the council's desire to keep council tax down.

The news comes despite the Liberal Democrat leader Cllr Gavin James proposing to increase the borough's share of council tax by £5 per annum, which would see a 10p per week increase to provide extra support through a public transport scheme.

Cllr James said "10p will not much make difference" and "it is a small price to pay to help a lot of people improve climate change."

Cllr Andy Konieczko agreed and said "for just 10p we can help tackle the climate emergency".

READ ALSO: Basingstoke leisure park: Plans will be reconsidered by councillors

The leader of the Independent group Cllr Paul Harvey added: "The council plan and the budget need to be far more ambitious for our residents. This council needs to focus on the services we provide, people’s needs and their aspirations. Simply vesting power in a few hands inside one group does not reflect the people’s desire for change or fulfil their aspirations."

As part of its budget the council has introduced a green team to provide in-person and remote support to residents and small businesses on how to save money/energy and make more active sustainable decisions.

The budget also allocates £210,000 in 2023-24 and £80,000 in 2024-25 for consultancy advice on the replacement of the Aquadrome on the leisure park.

 

The budget was approved with 41 votes.