Lib Dems proposed 0% rise to help residents after the 12-month pandemic but the Tories voted to put it up

A bid by the Liberal Democrats to freeze council tax this year in Gloucester has been rejected by the ruling Conservative council.

Lib Dem councillors proposed a one-off 0% rise to council tax bills in April in recognition of the huge financial strain being placed on families due to the pandemic.

Freezing council tax in 2021/22 would cost nearly £200,000 and would be funded from a Government grant and maintaining city council reserves.
The proposal was rejected by the Conservatives who instead will increase its share of the the council tax by 2.4%.

Liam Harries said: “Local residents have been hard hit by the Covid-19 pandemic.

“As we emerge from the health, social and financial impact of the virus and rebuild Gloucester’s shattered economy, we believe the council should recognise that many people are struggling by freezing council tax.

“It is disappointing the Conservatives rejected our sensible and fully funded proposal.”