Council tax payers in Wyre to pay 2.99 percent more after budget confirmed

Council tax payers in Wyre are being asked to pay a 2.99 percent increase in their bills as the council confirmed its budget.

Wyre described its 2026/27 budget as ’forward-looking’ as it agreed to continued investment in core services, community facilities, environmental improvements and long-term regeneration across the borough. 

Councillor Michael Vincent, Leader of Wyre Council, acknowledged that the financial landscape facing local authorities nationally was challenging but he said the council had set a balanced budget.

He said: “I’m pleased that, even with the financial pressures facing councils across the country, we have been able to set a balanced budget that protects essential services while investing over £8 million in new projects for our communities. 

“This investment supports our wider ambition for a borough where people feel safe and supported, where businesses have the opportunity to thrive, and where our environment and neighbourhoods are well cared for. This budget helps us continue that journey.” 

A broad programme of investment will be delivered over the next financial year alongside essential frontline services. Some of the key commitments include: 

£1,969,000 to enhance Wyre’s leisure centres following the award of the new operating contract to Parkwood Leisure. 

£1,584,000 for the Cottam Hall Masterplan, improving pitches, parking, landscaping and play areas for residents. 

£1,550,000 to modernise the Waterfront Bar at Marine Hall, creating improved facilities and new income opportunities. 

£534,000 for an education and visitor centre at Wyre Estuary Country Park, delivered alongside the Our Future Coast programme. 

£390,000 to replace critical drainage and pumping assets that support flood prevention and maintain council operations. 

£250,000 for economic development initiatives including business support and continued high-street improvements. 

£85,000 to continue funding the Positive Futures programme following the end of UK Shared Prosperity funding. 

£78,400 to install digital display screens across the borough, strengthening communications and promotion of services and events. 

£66,000 to explore redevelopment options for the Jubilee Gardens Bowling Club Pavilion. 

The council will apply a 2.99% increase to its portion of Council Tax for 2026/27. For a Band D property, this represents just £6.97 overall or 13p more per week. 

Wyre’s share makes up less than 10% of the total Council Tax bill, and from April the overall cost of Wyre Council services for a Band D property will be just 66p per day, or £240.05 per year. 

Councillor Vincent added: “Over the years, we have continued to steer our way through difficult financial periods carefully, becoming debt free while delivering our ambitious Council Plan and managing the resources needed to support it. 

“While adjusting our fees is never something we take lightly, combining modest increases with ongoing savings and efficiencies is essential to ensuring we can keep providing the support our communities rely on. 

“This past year our communities, partners and colleagues have achieved remarkable things together. We’ve supported residents through the cost-of-living crisis, backed local organisations that provide essential help, and celebrated national recognition for our work to help people lead active, healthy lives.

“ Our local economy continues to grow, our tourism sector is thriving, and our environmental projects, from major sea defence schemes to award-winning beaches and parks, are making a real difference.”