Precept 2025/26: Budget Statement from Horley Town Council:
Press Release:
Precept 2025/26: Budget Statement from Horley Town Council:
December 2024
Horley Town Council unanimously approved its Council Tax precept for the new financial year at its Full Council meeting on 10 December 2024. The Precept for 2025/26 has been set at a total net figure of £623,148. This means that the Town element of Council Tax will be an average annual amount of £55.21 per household, representing an annual increase of £1.21 per Band D property 2.24 %.
The Town Council has approved its Annual Budget, with a focus on maintaining services and driving improvements across all recreational parks and playgrounds. While remaining committed to maintaining high service quality, careful decisions were made to keep budget increases to a minimum. To align with inflation, however, charges for hall hire, football pitches, and allotment rentals will experience slight increases. A key aspect of the budget includes replenishing Town Council reserves which were previously used to maintain council-owned properties and recreational spaces. This measured approach supports fiscal responsibility and the long-term sustainability of community amenities.
This year has been exceptionally productive for the Town Council with multiple capital projects successfully delivered, thanks to funding from the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) Strategic Infrastructure Programme (SIP), administered by Reigate & Banstead Borough Council. Key projects included the installation of a new, modern playground at Michael Crescent Centenary Park, replacing the outdated structure to enhance community recreation. Additionally, this funding covered full replacement of the perimeter railings at Horley Recreation Ground, ensuring safety and aesthetic improvements. Resurfacing works were also carried out at the allotment sites, addressing necessary repairs to car park and access road areas, improving accessibility and usability for allotment holders. This year, several projects have been completed that will provide long-term benefits, including reduced maintenance costs for essential infrastructure and improved energy efficiency, such as, at the council offices and community hall. These projects not only reflect the Council’s commitment to enhancing local amenities and infrastructure for the benefit of residents but also form part of strategic planning for long-term investments and cost-saving measures.
Looking ahead, the Town Council plans to expand its office facilities next year to meet workspace accommodation needs and future sustainability, pending planning approval. Many of these improvements required matched funding which has been covered through the Town Council’s general reserves and a comprehensive report, detailing these projects will be available on our website at a later stage.
The Town Council remains fully committed to supporting St Bartholomew’s Church with a grant provision of £6,750 allocated towards grounds maintenance costs of the New Churchyard. This funding is contingent upon the approval of a grant application by the Church, ensuring the continued upkeep of this important community site.
The Town Council has allocated additional funds for CCTV upgrades and enhancements across our parks. In collaboration with our security provider and Surrey Police, we aim to improve public safety through these measures, alongside regular security patrols. To further enhance the town centre, the Town Council is committed to supporting vibrant floral displays for the enjoyment of both residents and visitors.
In other news, we mourn the very sad loss earlier this year of our dedicated café operator at Horley Recreation Ground, who diligently served the community with excellence. Another operator has taken on the tenancy following a successful bid and further details on opening arrangements will be announced soon.
The Town Council extends sincere gratitude to County Councillors for their continued support through Surrey County Council’s Your Fund Surrey schemes to support local community projects. This substantial funding has been instrumental in advancing smaller but impactful projects, such as installing new railings around popular play areas and increasing the number of community defibrillators. Additionally, the Town Council is actively pursuing more grant applications currently awaiting approval which, if successful, will further enhance community facilities and amenities. This collaborative effort underscores a shared commitment to improving local infrastructure and public safety. We would also mention that the Town Council’s small grants budget has been increased, through the Council Grants Scheme, to further support local community projects.
The Town Council also extends a special thank you to the many local groups and businesses whose ongoing sponsorship and support play a vital role in enhancing the vibrancy and resilience of Horley. Their contributions not only strengthen community ties but also help sustain and enrich local projects and services, fostering a thriving environment for all residents. We are equally indebted to all the wonderful volunteer groups and individuals who generously give their time in a variety of ways to make Horley the very best it can be.
In conclusion, Horley Town Council reaffirms its commitment to delivering and enhancing facilities that cater to the evolving needs of Horley residents. The Council places strong emphasis on achieving these improvements extensively funded by third parties and not from council tax, while ensuring best possible value for the community. For those seeking further information, detailed budget documents will soon be accessible on our website and at the Town Council offices.
On a final note, on behalf of our Members, I would like to invite all Horley residents to sign up to our free monthly Newsletter from the home page of our website or follow us on X (Twitter) or Facebook to be kept regularly informed about Horley Town Council’s business and other activities. Thank you.
Cllr Jordan Beech, Finance Lead Member
10 December 2024
