The Progressive Alliance’s budget for 23/24 was passed at Full Council last night, with the main focus being on supporting residents and ensuring core services are protected during the toughest financial crisis in a generation.

Milton Keynes City Council will introduce a below-inflation council tax rise of 4.99% to provide additional cost-of-living support for those in need. It also means that the City Council can continue to deliver core services without having to make any major cuts, unlike struggling neighbouring authorities.

The £200m budget provides millions of pounds in financial support, more money for local businesses and high streets, and further investment in improving the city’s roads, pathways, and landscaping.

Other features of the Progressive Alliance budget include:

• Support for hard-working homeowners through the £250,000 Mortgage Interest Rate Relief Fund
• Further cost-of-living schemes for the city’s most vulnerable residents and funding for parish councils so they can run community-based projects
• £15,000 to launch a knife crime reduction pilot which sees community groups engage with young people during the summer holiday
• Extra funding for mental health organisations

However the Conservative Group voted against the 23/24 budget and the Progressive Alliance’s plans for residents and services.

Councillor Pete Marland, Labour Leader of Milton Keynes City Council, said:

“Tonight we passed a budget to be proud of. Despite having to make £11m in savings next year, we can deliver a below-inflation council tax rise and don’t have to make any cuts to core services, all while providing extra support for hard-working residents during the cost-of-living crisis.”

Councillor Robin Bradburn, Lib Dem Deputy Leader of Milton Keynes City Council, added:

“This budget will make sure we can get to work on what local people really care about. Whether it be helping families pay their energy bills or filling thousands more potholes, the Progressive Alliance will continue to put people and services first.”