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Worcestershire Council Tax Set to Rise 9% Amid Crisis

2/11/2026

Summary

Story summary

Worcestershire County Council plans to raise council tax by up to 9% this April.
The government granted an exception due to the council's financial emergency.
Local government minister Alison McGovern said several councils, including Worcestershire, can exceed the 5% cap.
The council's struggles have prompted reform calls and some members' resignations.
The government announced a £5 billion debt write-off for councils overspending on special educational needs services to prevent insolvency.

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Story summary

Worcestershire County Council plans to raise council tax by up to 9% this April.
The government granted an exception due to the council's financial emergency.
Local government minister Alison McGovern said several councils, including Worcestershire, can exceed the 5% cap.
The council's struggles have prompted reform calls and some members' resignations.
The government announced a £5 billion debt write-off for councils overspending on special educational needs services to prevent insolvency.