England Councils Plan 5% Average Tax Rise for 2027

Households in England face council tax increases averaging nearly five percent for the 2026-27 financial year, as more than four-fifths of top-tier local authorities plan rises at or above the government's cap of 4.99 percent. The increases, affecting 125 of England's 153 upper-tier councils, come amid ongoing financial strains from rising service demands and limited central funding, with bills set to rise from April 2027.

Analysis of council proposals shows a slight decline from last year, when 134 authorities opted for the maximum hike without needing a referendum. Of the 119 councils confirming or proposing exactly 4.99 percent, the decision spans political lines: 67 of 78 Labour-led authorities, 23 of 26 Conservative-led ones, and 17 of 18 Liberal Democrat-led councils. Six councils under severe pressure, including Shropshire and North Somerset at 8.99 percent each and Worcestershire at 8.98 percent, have sought or received government permission to exceed the cap. In North Somerset, the rise will add about 160 pounds annually to average Band D households in areas like Weston-super-Mare. Trafford and Warrington, both Labour-controlled, are considering 7.49 percent and 7.48...