Reform-led Worcestershire set to issue England’s largest council tax rise

The Guardian - World NewsCenter-LeftEN 3 min read 100% complete by Patrick Butler Social policy editorFebruary 9, 2026 at 08:49 PM

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Worcestershire county council, led by Reform UK, is set to implement England's largest council tax increase in April, up to 9%, after receiving government permission to exceed the standard 5% cap. This decision has caused controversy, including a local Reform councillor resigning in protest. The government is also addressing council finances by clearing approximately £5 billion in historical debts related to special educational needs and disability (SEND) services, conditional on councils agreeing to implement SEND updates. Additionally, £440 million in recovery grants will be distributed to councils in economically deprived areas. Several other councils, including Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole, Warrington, Trafford, Shropshire, North Somerset, and Windsor and Maidenhead, have also been granted permission for above-limit council tax increases due to historically low rates.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Commons 30% Hampshire County Council 40% Trafford 50% Warrington 50% Shropshire 50% North Somerset 50% Windsor and Maidenhead 50% Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole 50% Alison McGovern 60% Reform UK 70% England ×280% Worcestershire County Council ×290%

Keywords

council tax rise 100% worcestershire 90% special educational needs and disability (send) 80% reform uk 70% council debt 70% local government funding 60% cap-busting rate rises 60% government grants 50% local authorities 50%