Falkirk Council has approved Scotland’s steepest council tax increase, raising bills by 15.6% in an effort to close a significant budget shortfall. The decision has sparked strong reactions from residents, with concerns over affordability and the future of local services.
The Biggest Tax Hike in Scotland
Councillors in Falkirk voted in favor of the unprecedented 15.6% rise, surpassing the previously highest increase of 15% set by Orkney Islands Council. The move pushes the annual Band D council tax bill to £1,576.77, the largest jump seen in the country this year.
Independent councillor Laura Murtagh proposed the increase, gaining support from Labour and fellow Independent members. She defended the decision as a necessity to protect key services, particularly in education.
Tough Choices Amid Budget Crisis
Local authorities across Scotland have been grappling with budget deficits, with Falkirk facing a £33 million shortfall. Council leader and SNP councillor Cecil Meiklejohn had proposed a 13.7% increase, arguing that it would bring Falkirk’s tax levels closer to the national average. However, the alternative motion was passed in a close vote.
Murtagh acknowledged the difficulty of the decision, stating:
- The budget initially included a £1 million cut to private nursery funding, which was reversed.
- There was strong resistance to proposed cuts in education spending.
- She anticipated backlash but emphasized that closing the financial gap was a priority.
How Falkirk Compares to Other Councils
The table below highlights council tax increases across Scotland, showing Falkirk leading with the steepest rise:
| Council | Council Tax Increase (%) | Band D Annual Bill (£) |
|---|---|---|
| Falkirk | 15.6% | 1,576.77 |
| Orkney Islands | 15.0% | TBD |
| East Dunbartonshire | 13.0% | TBD |
| West Dunbartonshire | 11.5% | TBD |
| Aberdeen | 9.85% | TBD |
| Inverclyde | 8.5% | 121.53 extra per year |
| Highland | 7.0% | 1,527.09 |
Public Reaction: Outrage and Hope
The decision has not gone unnoticed by residents, with many expressing frustration and disbelief. Some have called the increase “outrageous,” while others hope the extra funds will improve local services and infrastructure.
One local resident said, “Falkirk used to be a great place with a lot going on, but it feels like it’s been neglected. Hopefully, this money will bring some improvements.”
Another resident voiced concerns about slow response times for local services, including road repairs, questioning whether the additional tax revenue would lead to noticeable improvements.
The Bigger Picture: Scotland’s Funding Struggles
The surge in council tax hikes follows two decades of relative stability, with most local authorities keeping increases low or frozen. However, mounting financial pressures have forced councils to seek above-inflation rises to sustain services such as:
- Education and schools
- Social care programs
- Waste collection and street maintenance
- Libraries and public infrastructure
Despite additional funding from the Scottish Government, local councils continue to warn of difficult financial choices ahead. Leaders have raised concerns about a £100 million funding gap linked to UK-wide increases in employer National Insurance contributions.
What’s Next for Falkirk?
With the tax increase set, all eyes are now on how Falkirk Council will allocate the additional funds. Will it lead to better services, or will residents continue to see cuts? The coming months will determine whether this controversial decision ultimately benefits the community or fuels further discontent.
