Pendle Borough Council sets Budget and Council Tax for the year ahead

The plans set out continued investment in local communities while preparing for Local Government Reorganisation. 

In his budget speech, Councillor David Whipp, Leader of Pendle Borough Council, said the Council has secured a balanced budget for the year ahead and beyond.

He said: “This is a significant achievement and a key priority in our Council Plan.

“A reduction in pension contributions, without affecting staff, has enabled us to make savings and invest in priority areas.

“This includes supporting our sports and leisure centres to become financially and environmentally sustainable, helping to secure their long-term future.

“We have also created a £500,000 legacy fund to increase the resources available to Area Committees and Town and Parish Councils, supporting investment in local community projects.”

Plans for 2026/27 also include:

• introducing the Government’s weekly Food Waste scheme from April
• demolishing Pendle Rise ready for the new complex to be built
• completing the new cemetery in Brierfield and starting the extension to Ghyll Cemetery in Barnoldswick
• delivering a range of projects across Pendle through Nelson Pride in Place and the Pride in Place Impact Fund
• developing housing sites including Bunkers Hill in Colne and Bankhouse Road in Nelson
• bringing empty homes back into use and supporting homeless people to get the accommodation they need
• implementing the Renters’ Rights Act to ensure tenants are protected from rogue landlords and good landlords are protected from poor tenants.

Councillor Asjad Mahmood, Deputy Leader, added: “I am pleased that we have identified a further £150,000 to invest in new apprenticeships, building on the success of the scheme over the past year.

“We are also committing an additional £300,000 to Disabled Facilities Grants, helping residents remain independent in their own homes by funding essential adaptations.”

At the meeting, councillors agreed to raise the Council’s share of the Council Tax by 2.99%, which for Band D properties is £316.71, an increase of £9.19 for the year.

More than 60% of homes in Pendle are in Band A which is an increase of £6.13 per year or 12p per week, from £205.01 to £211.14.

Councillor Whipp said: “It is with regret that we have to increase the Council Tax.

“However, we remain committed to delivering our vision for Pendle and providing the services our communities depend on.

“This budget supports our priorities, including improving housing quality, tackling climate change, protecting green spaces and keeping our streets clean.

“We also recognise that many residents continue to need support, which is why we will continue delivering our Crisis and Resilience Fund in the year ahead.”