Council tax bills are set to rise for millions of households across England, Scotland, and Wales in April.
In 2025-26, the government will increase the funding it provides to councils. But despite this, the Local Government Association has said that council finances remain "extremely challenging”.
In England, councils responsible for social care can raise council tax by up to 4.99% annually without the need for a referendum, while smaller councils without social care duties can increase bills by up to 2.99%.
But for 2025-26, the government has allowed six areas to exceed the 4.99% cap. So how does this affect council tax rises in the North West? We’ve rounded up the 24 local councils to find out.
The below are listed from lowest increase to highest increase. We’ve noted whether the rises are proposed (i.e., yet to be formally approved) or confirmed at the time of writing.
17. Sefton (4.99% proposed)
The 2025/2026 council tax increase for Sefton is expected to be 4.99%, which is the maximum allowed by the government without a referendum. | Atanas - stock.adobe.com
18. St Helens (4.99% proposed)
St Helens Borough Council is recommending a 4.99% increase to council tax for the 2025/26 financial year, the maximum increase that can be introduced without a public vote. | Paul - stock.adobe.com
19. Stockport (4.99% proposed)
Stockport Council's council tax is set to increase by 4.99% in 2025/26. This includes a 2.99% increase to the general council tax and a 2% increase to the Adult Social Care Precept. | Tupungato - stock.adobe.com
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20. Tameside (4.99% proposed)
Tameside’s council tax will increase by 4.99% in April 2025, which is the maximum allowed by the government without a referendum. This increase is equivalent to £1.17 per week for homes in the lowest tax band. | Steve - stock.adobe.com