West Lothian residents may be facing a 5.8% increase in Council Tax starting in April, according to recent reports. This potential rise, which would equate to an additional £6.73 per month or £1.55 per week for an average Band D property, is among the lowest predicted increases compared to neighbouring local councils. Despite having to manage budget cuts amounting to £159 million since 2007, West Lothian Council is considering this raise to help bolster its finances.
The proposed increase mirrors what the council had initially planned for in February 2024 before a Council Tax freeze was implemented in the Autumn of 2023. If approved, this adjustment is estimated to generate over £6 million for the council. Moreover, in the current fiscal year, West Lothian received only about £4 million in government funding to offset the freeze imposed by then First Minister Humza Yousaf.
During a discussion at the council’s Corporate Policy and Resources PDSP, proposals were presented to reduce discounts for empty properties and discontinue rates relief for unoccupied commercial premises. However, there have been criticisms from within the council regarding the lack of innovation in the broader budget proposals.
West Lothian Council has been diligent in managing its financial resources, having saved a significant £159.2 million from 2007 to 2024. Yet, the council acknowledges the increasing challenge of making necessary savings without compromising public services. If the 5.8% Council Tax increase is ratified during the forthcoming budget meeting, it is likely to be one of the smaller increases compared to neighbouring councils like East Lothian, which is contemplating a rise of up to 10%.
The average Band D Council Tax rate in Scotland stands at £1,421, whereas West Lothian’s current rate is £1,390.96 for the 2024/25 period. Despite the rise, West Lothian remains with the tenth lowest council tax Band D rate in Scotland. From 2017/18 to 2024/25, the average Band D rate in Scotland has risen from £1,173 to £1,421, while West Lothian’s rate has increased by £262.96 or 23.3%.
As the council deliberates on the proposed increase, residents are closely following these developments that could impact their household finances. The council faces the delicate task of balancing fiscal responsibility with the delivery of essential services to the community.