Council tax frozen in Eden as local government reorganisation approaches

Karen Greenwood, Resources Portfolio Holder, said: “As result of the council’s strong financial position, we were able to recommend a freeze on Eden’s portion of the council tax for next year.

“I hope that this will afford Eden’s residents some respite as we face up to the cost of living crisis that is affecting much of the country.

“As always, it is our intention that Eden District Council should remain on a financially sound and sustainable footing, ready to face whatever the future holds ahead of vesting day for the new Westmorland and Furness unitary authority, which will replace Eden, South Lakes and Barrow councils in the spring of 2023.

“Up until that point, we intend to provide a well-managed and effective organisation, fit for purpose and delivering excellent services to meet customer needs.”

Cumbria County Council has also frozen its main element of the council tax, but has added a rise of 19.1 per cent for adult social care, which amounts to an increase of £29.96 on a Band D property.

Cumbria Police has included a 3.7 per cent increase to its portion of the council tax, which adds £9.99 to a Band D property. Altogether, this means that the average council tax for a Band D property will rise by £39.95.

Eden District Council also confirmed nominations for three of its councillors to sit on the joint committee.

They are the council leader, Councillor Virginia Taylor, the council’s deputy leader, Cllr Mary Robinson and the leader of the opposition Conservative group, Councillor Debra Wicks.

The budget also allocated money to support local communities, with £50,000 of additional funding allocated for open spaces and play areas, £20,000 to support community events to mark the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee, £100,000 for Zero Carbon Initiatives and £235,000 towards Cultural Development Initiatives, with the last two subject to further Cabinet approval.

READ MORE: Council boss quizzed over promise to freeze council tax