Budget & Precept 2026/27

/in News/by Clerk

BUDGET & PRECEPT 2026/27

Spratton Parish Council has set the precept for the 2026–27 financial year at £62,000. This reflects the Council’s commitment to managing public funds responsibly while responding to the needs and concerns of residents. Below is a detailed explanation of the decision, including historical comparisons, the impact on a Band D property, allocation of funds, and the financial controls in place.

Precept Comparison

Year Precept (£) Tax Base Band D Contribution (£)
2026–27 62,000 471.4 (tbc) 131.52 (tbc)
2025–26 54,000 473.5 114.05
2024–25 54,000 469.1 115.11

Figures for 2026–27 are subject to confirmation of the final tax base.

Trend Analysis

  • The precept remained unchanged between 2024–25 and 2025–26, during which the Council worked to manage ongoing financial pressures and local priorities.
  • The 2026–27 precept of £62,000 represents an increase, which reflects the need to meet identified responsibilities, realign spending within statutory powers, and maintain essential services.
  • The tax base is expected to remain broadly stable at around 471 properties. This means the increased precept is spread across a similar number of households, leading to a modest rise in the Band D charge.
  • To help limit the increase in the precept for 2026–27, the Council has agreed that part of the budget will be funded from reserves. This approach supports essential spending while reducing the impact on individual households.

Impact on Band D Properties

The Band D contribution is calculated by dividing the total precept by the tax base (Band D equivalent properties).

  • 2026–27 Band D Contribution:
    £62,000 ÷ 471.4 = £131.52 per year
  • 2025–26 Band D Contribution:
    £54,000 ÷ 473.5 = £114.05 per year

With a higher precept and a similar tax base, residents will see a modest increase in their annual Band D charge for 2026–27.

How Precept Funds Are Used

The precept is the Parish Council’s primary source of income and funds a wide range of services, amenities, and obligations within Spratton, including:

  1. Maintenance of Grass Areas
  • Cutting and upkeep of open spaces and verges
  • Inspections and maintenance to hedges and trees
  1. Support for Community Facilities
  • Management and upkeep of East View Cemetery
  • Maintenance at Brixworth Road Cemetery and Pocket Park
  • Maintenance of St Andrew’s Churchyard
  • Support for local events and community initiatives
  1. Street Furniture and Infrastructure
  • Repairs and maintenance of benches, litter bins, and streetlights
  1. Administrative and Operational Costs
  • Salary for the Clerk
  • Insurance, office supplies, and IT systems
  1. Emergency Reserves
  • Maintaining adequate reserves to manage unforeseen costs, in line with best practice
  • Preparing for potential devolution of responsibilities from the Unitary Council
  1. Grants and Donations
  • Financial support to local organisations and charities that benefit the community

Comparison of Tax Base and Precept Over Time

  • The tax base has remained relatively constant, increasing from 469 in 2024–25 to around 471 in 2026–27.
  • With household numbers broadly unchanged, increases in the precept translate directly into corresponding changes in individual contributions.
  • The Council continues to prioritise careful budgeting and value for money, ensuring that rising costs are balanced with the impact on residents.

Financial Powers and Controls

Spratton Parish Council operates within a robust financial framework designed to ensure accountability, transparency, and responsible stewardship of public funds.

  1. Budget Approval

The annual budget and precept are discussed and approved at public meetings, allowing residents to express views and ask questions.

  1. Statutory Compliance

All spending is governed by legislation, including the Local Government Act 1972, ensuring that expenditure is lawful and within the Council’s powers.

  1. Internal and External Audit
  • Internal Audit: Reviews compliance with financial regulations and procedures
  • External Audit: Provides an independent review of finances and governance
  1. Transparency Requirements
  • Publication of budgets, precept details, financial statements, and expenditure reports
  • Public inspection of accounts during the statutory period
  1. Reserves Management

The Council maintains appropriate levels of general and earmarked reserves for emergencies and future commitments, in line with guidance from bodies such as NALC and SLCC.

Conclusion

The 2026–27 precept of £62,000 reflects the Council’s ongoing commitment to sound financial management and the effective delivery of services for the community. While the increase results in a modest rise in the Band D contribution, it enables the Council to fulfil its responsibilities, maintain key assets, and respond to continuing cost pressures.

Jane Marshall
Chairman
Spratton Parish Council