Leighton-Linslade Town Council's freezes its share of the tax bill

Despite a projected budgetary shortfall of £74,431, rising inflation and increasing costs, the town council decided at its meeting on January 25 that it was able to continue providing its services without having to raise council tax which is to remain at £155.50 for a typical Band D property.

It says its ability to meet the anticipated shortfall in income is down to prudent financial planning which saw the creation of a Covid-19 Earmarked Reserve for this very purpose.

Income generating opportunities through venue hire, the twice weekly market and events have all but stopped, causing financial challenges to both this year’s and next year’s budget.

Town council leader Steve Jones stated: “I would like to thank the officers and councillors for their hard work in safeguarding the council’s finances. Despite a considerable loss of income, the town council has been able to continue offering those services it was able to whilst also supporting the community in this difficult time.”

The council says through its capital projects budget the parish will continue to see ongoing improvements in the services and facilities the town council is either responsible for or wishes to support.

Future projects include outreach to older persons, outdoor table tennis tables, inclusive adventure playground, improved seating, enhanced architectural lighting within the town centre and live broadcast of the service of Remembrance.

For more information on other projects and initiatives that the council has delivered and is intending to, see http://www.leightonlinslade-tc.gov.uk. Central Beds Council is proposing to raise its share of the tax bill by 4.95%.