Braintree Council approved its budget for 2025-26, focusing on community improvements, housing, and key services without service cuts.
They will invest £1.6 million in improvements that help sports and community spaces. A new community center is also planned, including artificial grass pitches. The money also supports disabled residents by funding essential home changes and installing new hot water and heating systems.
The budget allocates £500,000 for temporary housing to address a growing need in the community. They need more accommodation for people in transition. Another £1.5 million will improve local assets, creating a Community Asset Fund to enhance community spaces across the region.
Plans include extending the cost-of-living fund and buying more bins for litter and dog waste. Cleaning the A120 road is also a priority, utilizing a rapid response team to keep the district clean. Councillors receive money for local projects, with each councillor getting £1,250 for their area through the Councillor Community Grant Scheme.
Council tax will increase slightly, approximately 11 pence more per week, based on a Band D property tax. The council manages money well, focusing on valued services. People and businesses depend on these services.
The council balanced its budget successfully and will continue improving vital services. Good money management made this possible for them.