Figures released today by the Progressive Alliance reveal that the average household in Milton Keynes is expected to pay less council tax compared to neighbouring Tory-run authorities in the next financial year.

The 2022/23 budget proposed by the Labour and Liberal Democrat Cabinet will see a below-inflation council tax rise of 3.75%, with no cuts to core services, and more money for potholes, pest control and fly-tipping.

It will also see the average Band D household pay approximately £1,520.55 in council tax – which is on average £112 less than neighbouring Conservative-run councils.

Councillor Pete Marland, Labour Leader of Milton Keynes Council, said: “Tory-run councils across the country are charging more for council tax while making significant cuts to services. Families in MK will pay less but get more under the Labour and Liberal Democrat-run Council. We aren’t making any cuts, and we’re investing more in what residents truly care about while supporting families that need our help the most.”

The proposed 3.75% council tax rise means Milton Keynes households will pay less for their council tax than those in Northamptonshire, Buckinghamshire, and Bedfordshire.

Councillor Robin Bradburn, Liberal Democrat Deputy Leader of Milton Keynes Council, added: “Keeping council tax low is our priority, especially as families face the cost-of-living crisis. Energy bills are soaring, the Tory Government has introduced a National Insurance hike, and inflation has hit hard. I hope that all councillors will come together to put residents first by supporting this budget.”

Councillor Rob Middleton, Labour Progressive Alliance Cabinet Member for Resources, said: “Milton Keynes households will continue to pay the lowest council tax in the area, and I’m proud of that. The Progressive Alliance has proposed a cost-effective, below-inflation council tax rise that puts people first, all while the Conservative Government has partied away, wasted billions of pounds through COVID fraud, and increased National Insurance at a time when families are being forced to choose between food, heating and debt.”

The 2022/23 budget will be voted on by Full Council later this month.