LOCAL councillors in Dursley have decided not to increase their share of council tax. 

Dursley Town Council unanimously agreed not to increase the precept paid by residents for the year 2024/25. 

The budget agreed will keep the council tax cost at £216.66 per year which equates to £4.17 per week on an average Band D household.

It was decided during a council meeting on Tuesday, January 23. 

Dursley mayor Alex Stennett said: "Not raising our share of the council tax has been a challenge this year with increasing costs all round. 

“Recognising the cost-of-living pressures faced by all of our residents, councillors and staff have worked exceptionally hard to create a strong budget that does not cause pain to council services or residents' pockets.”

The council says it will continue to manage, maintain and improve facilities at the Kingshill Cemetery and Allotments, St Mark's burial ground, the War Memorial Recreation Ground, Kingshill Play Park, Highfields Play Area and Long Street Car Park.

A spokesperson also says it is “actively seeking” additional grant funding to upgrade the Pavilion on the War Memorial Recreation Ground after recently submitting a planning application. 

The council says it will continue to provide youth sessions at the Vibe Youth Centre and support a number of tourism projects including the continuation of the Visitor Information Centre based at the Library.

The council's grant programme will continue to run with an increased budget of £50,000 for 2024/25. 

Meanwhile, support will continue for volunteer run groups and organisations including Dursley in Bloom, Dursley Welcomes Walkers and Festive Dursley.

The agreed budget also includes a new admin position at the council. 

Budget summary for 2024/25 

Expenditure: 

  • Green Spaces Maintenance £276,889
  • Town Improvements and Amenities £63,078
  • Youth Services £62,500
  • Community Grants £50,000
  • Council Administration £284,482
  • Other Services £2,210

Total - £739,159

Income

  • Use of Reserves £170,000
  • Other Income £32,159
  • Council Tax/Precept £537,00

Total - £739,159