Council approves budget to continue investing in communities

Cheshire West and Chester Council has approved its budget for 2026 to 2027 alongside its financial plans for the next four years, continuing its focus on protecting vital services and supporting residents while investing in local communities.

The budget has been developed over recent months and shaped by feedback from residents, businesses and community organisations through the Fit for the Future consultation.

Like councils across the country, Cheshire West and Chester continues to face rising demand and increasing costs, particularly in adult social care and children and families services. The approved budget prioritises statutory services while maintaining investment in neighbourhoods across the borough.

Key features of the budget include:

• Continued investment in adult social care to help people live independently for longer
• Support for children and families through early help and prevention
• Ongoing investment in roads, transport, and community facilities
• Help for residents affected by the cost of living

Full Council also approved a Council Tax increase of 4.99% for 2026 to 2027, including a 2% Adult Social Care precept.

This means a Band D property will see an increase of £98.70 per year, equivalent to around £1.90 per week.

Support remains available for residents who may be worried about their finances, including Council Tax Reduction, money and debt advice and help through the Council's cost of living support.

Council Tax helps fund a wide range of essential local services, including adult social care, children's services, waste collection, road maintenance, and support for people facing homelessness.

Councillor Carol Gahan, Cabinet Member for Legal and Finance, said: 

"Setting this year's budget has once again required difficult decisions in a very challenging financial climate.

"Throughout this process we have remained focused on what residents told us matters most. This budget protects vital care services, supports vulnerable residents, and continues investment in our communities.

"As well as investing in Social Care for Children's and Adults the Council will be investing over £456m over the next four years in maintaining and improving assets across the borough."

The Council will now move forward with delivering the agreed priorities for the year ahead.

Full details of the budget and available support can be found here:

https://www.cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk/residents/council-tax