Moray Council plans to increase service charges before the budget. Prices may rise for weddings, school meals, and bin uplifts.
The council will think about raising several service fees and will discuss these increases at a meeting tomorrow. Councillor pay could rise by up to 40 percent. Also, they will talk about a visitor levy for Moray.
Since 2023, prices have slowly risen with inflation, and this increase will continue until 2027. This year, officials want a 3.6 percent default increase, though some services will see increases beyond that number.
In January, Fit Life memberships rose by £1 each month. The marriage room at the headquarters may see big rises with a flat rate of £145 covering up to 20 guests. Saturday weddings will have an extra £250 charge, covering staff costs and being up from £145.
Primary school meals may cost £2.55, meaning they will go up by 10p. Brown bin permits could cost £52 yearly per bin, up from £50 per bin. A zoo license may rise by £31 if someone opens a zoo.
Adult swimming and lessons won’t change in price; this was decided back in January by the council. Grass pitches stay at last year’s prices, however, sports halls and astro turf will increase. Parking charges will stay the same this year in Moray.
Thanks to the Scottish Parliament, pay deals may change as new legislation has shifted pay bands. This lets Moray Council raise councillor pay. Officers say senior councillor pay could rise by £256,000, affecting eight positions.
Councillors decide on a visitor levy’s proposals. The Highlands are also considering a similar levy, and if plans proceed, it starts in February 2026. You can find all charges and plans on their site which has details before Wednesday’s meeting.