District Council Confirms Freeze On Council Tax and Parking Charges

East Lindsey District Council have confirmed that they are to freeze their portion of Council Tax as well as freezing car parking fees, despite significant financial pressures.

At the Council’s annual budget setting meeting on March 2, 2011, Councillors agreed a savings package for 2011/12 totalling £3m delivered through more efficient and effective ways of working.

The £3m saving was needed following a £2.139m reduction (13.2% reduction) in Government Grant Settlement and other significant budgetary pressures, such as increases in fuel and other utility bills. The Drainage Board has also increased its levy from the District Council by £39,000 for 2011/12.

Despite this, Councillors have also been able to freeze car parking charges and there will be no increase to reflect January’s rise in VAT from 17.5% to 20%, although the Council will still have to pay VAT at 20% to the Government costing £60,000 this year.

Leader of the Council, Councillor Doreen Stephenson, said the budget is good news for local people but challenges still lie ahead: “I am delighted we’ve been able to protect services and freeze Council Tax and car parking charges. This will be a welcome relief to the community.”

“However, this isn’t job done. Like all Councils we still need to make further significant savings over the next three to four years at least. In doing this we will continue to be innovative and pioneering. We must ensure our priorities continue to be providing excellent value for money, clean streets and supporting the most vulnerable people in our community.”

The Council has also been told to expect a further reduction in Government Grant Settlement of £1.625m in 2012/13.

The Council will be investing in flood relief and economic development, as well as improving the service it gives to people who find themselves homeless.

The full budget report is available to view on the Council’s website.