These measures will help to fund investments into services and deliver on the long term aims of its new Corporate Strategy.

Warwick District Council has not increased its portion of the Council Tax bill for the past 2 years; however, this year will see it increase by 2.99%. This is equal to a £5.29 increase per household per year, or 11p per household per week on a Band D Household. However, over 91% of the Council Tax goes to Warwickshire County Council, Warwickshire Police and Town and Parish Councils.

Councillors also approved a range of investment initiatives to ensure continued improvement of services:

• £200,000 over 3 years for additional cost of living support
• £130,000 additional investment to tackle fly-tipping
• Funding for improvements to Victoria Park’s paddling pool
• Investment in solar panels on some of our buildings to save money and reduce carbon emissions
• An Energy Planning Officer to monitor the high standard of new builds

Warwick District Council’s Portfolio Holder for Resources, Cllr Jonathan Chilvers comments:

“Setting the budget this year has been a challenge against the difficult financial environment.

"With so many Councils struggling and so much uncertainty about the money central Government will provide, the Council Tax increase will ensure valued services continue, services which include waste and fly-tipping collections, the provision of leisure centres and swimming pools, parks, and homelessness services.

"The average £5.29 a year Council Tax increase for each household, means we can plan sensible investments that will benefit residents.”

Warwick District Council’s Portfolio Holder for Transformation, Cllr Jessica Harrison adds: “It is important to support our residents who need us more than ever during the cost-of-living crisis. Our commitment lies in delivering services that are not only there for residents when they need them, but also ensuring long-term sustainability.

"Our focus remains on improving the quality, efficiency, and accessibility of all our services.”