Wandsworth council announces record 94% council tax rise

• Wandsworth Council plans a 94% council tax increase for Band D properties.
• The increase amounts to £958 per property and will take effect from April 2027.
• The council attributes the rise to government funding reforms it says will cut its budget by £84 million annually.
• Council leader Robert Morritt stated the decision was made to protect essential local services.
• Deputy leader Peter Graham insisted the council is fighting for fairer funding and is on residents' side.

Wandsworth Council, a Conservative-led authority in south London that previously had some of the lowest council tax rates in Britain, has announced plans for a record 94% increase in council tax for a Band D property, amounting to £958, effective from April 2027. The council attributes this significant rise to government reforms, specifically the 'Fair Funding' reforms, which it claims will reduce its annual funding by £84 million. This reduction, according to the council, is equivalent to its combined annual spending on parks, libraries, leisure centers, bin collection, and street cleaning.

Council leader Robert Morritt admitted that increasing council tax was a difficult decision, but stated it was necessary to protect essential local services and ensure their sustainability. He blamed the rise on 'savage cuts from central government' and a 'dramatic reduction' in the council's reserves. Mr. Morritt emphasized that the council is setting out a plan to safeguard services while addressing financial challenges, prioritizing cleaner streets, safer communities, stronger housing services, support for vulnerable residents, and financial stability.

Peter Graham, deputy leader and cabinet member for finance, stated that the council is being honest with residents and that the tax rise is necessary unless the government reconsiders its funding approach. He insisted that Wandsworth is 'fighting' for a 'fairer deal' and should not be penalized for running efficient services and maintaining low council tax historically. Graham assured residents that the council is on their side and advocating for the funding it believes Wandsworth deserves.