As with all Authoritarians they seem deaf to the wishes of the eclectorate and think that money just grows on tree's free for the harvest, in my opinion. It is not bad enough, in my opinion, that they continue to allow the Town to continue to spiral down the plug hole but have the nerve to increase their cut of the rates pie. I wonder what projects they will be spending this extra money on!!!!!!!!
The 12.6% council tax increase you're seeing on your bill is due to a significant rise in the precept set by Dawlish Town Council. Why Dawlish Town Council Raised Its Precept:
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Financial Resilience: Many parish councils in Devon (e.g., Honiton, Bovey Tracey) are increasing precepts sharply to build reserves ahead of local government reorganisation in 2028, which may shift responsibilities to town-level authorities.
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Service Sustainability: The funds help maintain local services such as parks, events, allotments, and community facilities.
Inflation and Costs: Rising operational costs and inflation are pressuring small councils to adjust their budgets.
What You Can Do:
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Review Your Bill Breakdown: Check how much of your total is allocated to Dawlish Town Council.
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Contact the Town Council: Ask for a copy of their budget or attend a council meeting for transparency.
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Raise Concerns: As an elector, you have the right to question decisions at public forums.
This trend reflects growing financial pressure on local councils, with town-level authorities taking proactive steps despite the impact on residents.
Dawlish Town Council Council Tax Precept Increases (Recent Years):
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2026/27: +12.6% – Rise to fund reserves ahead of local government reorganisation and rising costs (Band D: ~£121.50).
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2025/26: +2.83% – Increase of £2.97; total Band D precept: £107.92.
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2024/25: +7.1% – Increase of £7.03; total Band D precept: £104.95.
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2023/24: +1.85% – Increase of £1.75; total Band D precept: £96.42.
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2021/22: +6.7% – Increase of £5.66; total Band D precept: £89.94.
Notes:
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Dawlish Town Council sets its own precept and is not subject to the national cap.
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The 12.6% rise in 2026/27 reflects efforts to build financial resilience and prepare for potential new responsibilities.
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Detailed historical data prior to 2021 is not publicly available online.
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