Money matters

Did you know in every pound you pay, we get 12p. The rest goes to Hertfordshire County Council (76.6%) and the police (11.4%).

This year also sees the introduction of our new council tax reduction scheme, meaning that the lowest income households in the district will not pay any council tax at all. Here’s some examples of what the scheme could mean for you.

As well as providing our core services, such as recycling and waste, street cleaning, planning, leisure and greenspace, this year our budget also incorporates some exciting projects across the district, including:

A single person with an income up to £100 per week, or a couple with two children on a weekly income below £260, will be entitled to the full 100% council tax relief. In addition, some families with an income below £515 a week will also be eligible for some support. The scheme for pension age residents is set by the government and has not changed.

The council has written to anyone affected by the new scheme.

£100k for the creation of a Community Wealth Fund which will be open to bids from local groups for projects that have a sustainable and measurable impact on the local area.

£720k for solar panels at North Herts Leisure Centre in Letchworth, Royston Leisure Centre and Hitchin Swim Centre to help reduce carbon emissions and save money.

£250k to renovate the skatepark at King George V Recreation Ground in Hitchin, and £100k to renovate and improve access to the skatepark at Newmarket Road in Royston.

£400k for the refurbishment of Charnwood in Hitchin, the former Museum site, into a community hub.