Taxes are set to rise.

Congleton Town Council has confirmed that it will be increasing the Town Council Precept by 17.8% for the 2026/27 financial year.

For a typical band D property, this equates to around 40p per week or £20.92 per year, bringing the total to £138.33 per household annually.

This decision, made at a council meeting on Thursday (January 22), aims to ensure the continuation of local services and address rising costs that are 'largely beyond the council's control' such as the devolution of services from Cheshire East Council.

Congleton Town Mayor, councillor Robert Brittain, said: "This Precept increase is about safeguarding the services our residents value most and ensuring that Congleton remains a thriving, independent town.

"While no one welcomes an increase, the cost to the average Band D household is just £20.92 per year — around 40 pence per week.

"It is a small contribution for the significant benefit of keeping our town clean, vibrant, and well-serviced."

Over the six-year period from April 2019 to April 2025, the town council's Precept for Band D properties increased from £86.21 to £117.41, a 36.2% rise.

advertisement

This is 8.4% below the increase in the Retail Price Index during the same period.

The council says that despite taking on additional responsibilities, such as the Information Centre, Streetscape service, and maintenance of the Paddling Pool, Congleton's Precept remains lower than many other towns in Cheshire East.

Looking ahead, the town council say they will look to provide distinctive services that enhance the local community, including taking on the responsibility for public toilets from Cheshire East, highway weeding and grass cutting.