Darlington Council Tax Set to Rise by 4.99% in 2025 Amid Budget Concerns

Darlington Council approved increasing some charges despite worries about residents’ struggles. The 2025/26 budget needs £4 million in savings, so car parking fees will rise to help. A community funding program, which gave £50,000 to local groups, will also end.

Council leaders defended their decisions, saying they’re saving £25 million while still protecting key services. Council Leader Stephen Harker spoke after the meeting, calling the budget a key milestone that addresses the council’s financial situation.

The Labour-Liberal Democrat group blamed Conservatives, asserting that the Tories left a financial problem that would overspend by £7.5 million yearly. They stated that rising social care and homelessness costs hurt the council’s finances.

Cllr Harker criticized the Conservatives’ spending ideas, saying they caused the financial issues and accusing them of “fantasy land” economics. While government funding will help the council in 2025/26, officials still face financial challenges. Reductions in public spending caused a £46 million budget cut between 2010 and 2019.

Conservative councillors criticized Labour, claiming they broke manifesto promises to freeze council tax and ease living costs. Tory councillors displayed critical signs during the meeting.

Conservative Leader Jonathan Dulston said the council’s finances improved, but claimed taxpayers won’t benefit. He accused Labour of breaking promises to the public.

Labour’s Mandy Porter replied, noting that Conservatives also raised council tax. Darlington’s council tax is second lowest in the North East, but the council said charges alone are not enough income.