Blyth Town Council set Precept for 2025-26, Keeping Council Tax Contribution Unchanged

Blyth Town Council approved the budget for 2025/26 at £1,492,579, an increase of £41,280 at a meeting held in January 2025. The increase has been possible due to changes to the tax base, allowing the Council to increase the precept, ensuring that residents will see no increase in their council tax contribution. The Band D equivalent charge will remain at £135.44, the same as in 2024-25. This move reflects the council's ongoing commitment to financial stability while maintaining essential local services and community projects. The precept, set at £1,490,046, represents the council’s funding request to Northumberland County Council. This funding will support key initiatives and ensure the continued delivery of vital services without adding financial pressure on residents.

 

Revised Partnership Agreement with Northumberland County Council

Blyth Town Council has successfully renegotiated its partnership agreement with Northumberland County Council to enhance local environmental services while achieving significant savings. The partnership provides additional support beyond the core services offered by the county council, ensuring a cleaner and more attractive environment for residents.

Key enhancements under the agreement include:

• Additional street cleansing, including more frequent litter bin emptying.

• Provision and maintenance of floral displays to enhance the town’s aesthetics

• New measures for weed control and removal in response to residents' concerns.

• Increased cleaning frequency of bus shelters

• Grass cutting and strimming at play area sites.

As part of the revised agreement, the enhanced grounds maintenance service, which included extra grass cutting in gateway areas, has been removed. This decision was made due to difficulties in achieving additional cuts caused by weather conditions and the satisfactory quality of the standard Northumberland County Council service. Grass cutting will continue as part of the county’s core service. Additionally, play area inspections will now be conducted by Blyth Town Council staff instead of being part of the partnership agreement.

Financial Savings for Further Environmental Initiatives

The adjustments to the partnership agreement have resulted in savings of £50,000. These funds will be redirected towards other environmental projects, further benefiting the community and ensuring continued improvements to the local environment.

Blyth Town Council remains dedicated to responsible economic management and the delivery of high-quality services, reinforcing its commitment to residents while maintaining fiscal prudence. Mayor Aileen Barras commented on the decision, stating, "We are pleased to be able to freeze the amount payable by our residents this year, ensuring no additional financial burden while continuing to invest in our town’s essential services. Our revised partnership agreement allows us to improve local environmental initiatives while achieving significant savings, demonstrating our commitment to both fiscal responsibility and community well-being."