Balanced budget agreed

Like many local authorities, Spelthorne is under considerable financial strain. These challenges frame the setting of this budget before the Council is dissolved on 1 April 2027, when its responsibilities transfer to the new West Surrey unitary authority, which will take over services currently delivered by the borough, district and county councils.  

Members also agreed to increase the borough’s share of council tax by 2.90%, equivalent to £6.64 per year (12.7p per week) for a Band D property. While the Council collects council tax on behalf of Surrey County Council and the Surrey Police and Crime Commissioner, just over 9% (9.30p in every pound) is collected to fund Spelthorne’s services, with the remainder distributed to those authorities. 

The 2.90% increase, below the current rate of inflation, will help protect local services in the year ahead. Surrey County Council has increased its element by 4.99% and the Police by 4.40%. As a result, the total annual council tax bill for a Band D property will rise from £2,412.78 to £2,526.49. 

Leader of Spelthorne Borough Council said, Cllr Joanne Sexton, said: “Our inclusive approach to setting this budget ensured every councillor had a voice, with service committees shaping proposals that keep residents at the heart of our decisions. Over the past year, services identified further efficiencies for the next year and new ways to ease budget pressures, delivering savings of around £5.7M. 

Despite financial challenges, we are investing where it matters most, strengthening Environmental Health, tackling Houses of Multiple Occupation, supporting a new Business Improvement District for Ashford, protecting the Skills and Jobs Hub despite reduced external funding, and progressing the Staines Masterplan. We are also clear about our red lines: no closures or cuts to community centres, leisure centres provision, parks and open spaces, or the Spelride service. 

As we prepare for local government reorganisation, we remain focused on delivering services and securing medium-term savings. As we begin the transition to the new West Surrey Council it is important that we remain financially resilient, while protecting what matters most to residents."