News from Wickford Town Council

The Precept – What is it?

Local councils do not receive a direct grant from Government.

A local council can generate income from the services it provides, however, the main source of income is raised by the levy of a precept on persons over 18 who own or occupy a dwelling in the area of the council. The precept is collected through the council tax and each year the local council calculates the aggregate of:

• Expenditure it estimates it will incur for the year

• An allowance for contingencies

• Financial reserves for future expenditure

Activities are managed within the set budget. Financial budgeting and internal control is subject to strict and detailed statutory requirements and proper practices.

The Town Council agreed is budget for 2023-24 at the Council meeting held on 5th December 2022 and the Precept sum agreed was £222,255.

Riverside Walk – London Road

Last year the Town Council began a project to refurbish the Riverside Walk in London Road. The area was unsightly and in desperate need of improvement.

The project to open up the area and make it a feature of the Town started in February this year with the current shrubbery and some trees (dead) being removed. This is being replaced with new railings and metal archway with the wording ‘Wickford Riverside Walk’.

A new hard standing area at the entrance will also be provided.

The current Information Board will be moved near to the new entrance.

Residents will benefit from the improvements by being able to enjoy this area of open space in Wickford.

For a Band D Property this equates to £22.61, a 7.64% decrease on last year.

Expenditure for 2023-24 includes the following:

• New street noticeboards

• Events

• Grants scheme

• Wickford Market

• Tree planting

• Community Special Constables

• Christmas lights

• Neighbourhood Plan

• Projects

- Riverside Walk London Road

- Railway bridge underpass

- Wickford Library artwork restoration

Further information on the Town Council’s finances can be found on the website: www.wickfordtowncouncil.gov.uk www.wickfordtowncouncil.gov.uk