Ilkley Town Council sets budget and precept for 2026–27

At its Full Council meeting on Monday 12 January, Ilkley Town Council discussed and formally agreed its budget for the 2026–27 financial year.

Councillors approved a precept of £420,381, which means a Band D household will continue to pay £56.97 per year (collected alongside their Bradford Council tax) – the same amount as in 2025–26. This remains well below the national average, with official government data showing the average Band D parish precept in England for 2025–26 was £92.22.

Ilkley Town Council uses this precept funding, paid by local residents, to deliver and support a wide range of services and facilities that benefit the town. These include: the management of the South Hawksworth Street, Riverside and White Wells public toilets, the provision of three allotment sites, and the ongoing care of Darwin Gardens.

The Council also hosts community events, provides the Jubilee and Christmas lights, and operates a grant scheme that supports local organisations. Grants are awarded to projects that contribute to environmental improvement, strengthen community, cultural and sporting activities, and promote diversity and inclusion across the town.

The approved 2026–27 budget includes increased earmarked reserves to support the much-needed refurbishment of the public toilets at South Hawksworth Street car park, helping to ensure this important facility can be upgraded for the benefit of residents and visitors alike.

Ilkley Town Mayor, Councillor Jane Gibson, said:

“I am pleased that the Council has been able to set a balanced and responsible budget that protects essential local services while keeping the Band D precept unchanged for another year. At a time when many households are under financial pressure, this reflects our commitment to delivering value for money and investing carefully in Ilkley’s future. The additional provision for the refurbishment of the South Hawksworth Street toilets is a good example of how we are planning ahead to maintain facilities that are important to both our community and visitors to the town.”

To ensure transparency, you can view the approved budget (and previous years’ budgets) on the Ilkley Town Council website: ilkleytowncouncil.gov.uk/the-council/finance-annual-returns