Council tax rise of 9% proposed for Midlothian

Residents in Midlothian face a council tax rise of 9% in the coming year as council bosses argue it is the only way to fill a £11m budget gap.

Midlothian councillors will be asked to approve the rise, which comes 12 months after they introduced a 10% increase, at a meeting next week.

A report to elected members says that without the increase, the council is facing a budget gap of £10.9m unless they agree to the additional charges, which will bring in an additional £6.6m.

The remaining shortfall of over £4m will be met, under the proposals, by dipping into the council’s reserves fund. And there is little relief promised for residents next year, with the officers predicting a further 8% hike, taking the overall increase to 27% over three years.

A report to councillors says the local authority has done all it can to reduce the budget with other cuts and increased charges, and has no more options available.

It says: “The budget gap, even after taking measures to reduce recurring costs and increase fees and charges, leaves council tax as the only recurring option remaining to balance budgets other than introduction of some very challenging savings options.”

Councillors will be asked to approve the budget at a meeting next week, including the 9% council tax rise.