Concerns Grow About One Year Council Tax Freeze

18th October 2023

A COSLA Spokesperson said: "We have just heard the announcement made at the SNP Conference in relation to freezing council tax. We were unaware of it in advance. This has longer term implications for all councils right across the country, at a time when we know there are acute financial pressures, and where we are jointly looking at all local revenue raising options.

"We will need to consider the implications for COSLA and Local Government with our members when we get more of the detail. This will also need to be examined against the principles of the recently signed Verity House Agreement."

Leader of Highland council Bill Lobban has expressed his doubts about the unexpected announcement as many council services are suffering sever strains.

The Green Party who are in government with SNP have said they are not happy about the announcement.

Many Scottish councils have already warned of budget deficits that will mean more cuts to services affecting thins like libraries and swimming pools. But much wider implications ae likely to affect a wide range of what councils do.

The action will not just affect one year as a freeze affect many years after as the percentage increases are on a low figure.

Another main point being made as it has been for several years is that even though the SNP an other parties agree council tax is not a good tax there has not be a re-valuation of properties for 30 years.