ASHINGTON TOWN COUNCIL SETS AMBITIOUS BUDGET FOR 2026/27

29 January 2026

Modest 21p monthly increase for most households funds enhanced services and community investment

Ashington Town Council has approved its budget for 2026/27, delivering an ambitious programme of community services and improvements for a modest increase of just 21 pence per month for the majority of Band A households, and 32 pence per month for Band D properties.

The £1,148,693 budget demonstrates the Council's commitment to delivering value for money whilst investing in the town's future. Through smart contracting, changing suppliers, and bringing some services in-house, the Council has achieved significant savings in environmental services and street scene operations without reducing a single service.

Visible Improvements Throughout the Town

The Council continues its strong partnership with Northumberland County Council, working together to enhance neighbourhood services with a clear focus on achieving visible improvements throughout Ashington. The Partnership Board made up of Town Council and NCC Officers is committed to making sure residents can see the difference their council tax makes; every decision they make is about delivering real, tangible results for the people of Ashington.

Listening to Residents

Responding directly to community feedback calling for a bigger and better Christmas celebration, the Council has increased its events and engagement budget. The Christmas Lighting displays have got better each year, but the people of Ashington really value this celebration and said they want more at Christmas - a larger tree and a better switch-on event. The Council has listened and this budget allows us to deliver the kind of community events that bring Ashington together and create lasting memories.

Supporting Our Community

The Council has maintained its funding and community support budget at £120,000 - representing 12% of total expenditure - ensuring continued backing for local organisations, youth initiatives, and small grants that make a real difference to Ashington's community groups and residents.

Investing in Capacity and Technology

Recognising the expanding responsibilities of the Town Council, the Management & Support budget has been increased to grow the team and ensure the Council remains flexible and responsive to the town's needs. The Council is continuing its move into 21st century ways of working. We are investing in the right technology and systems available to our sector, so we can work smarter and deliver better services for residents.

Future-Proofing and Asset Investment

The budget demonstrates excellent financial planning, with essential reserves being set aside for future capital projects. This year, the Council plans to undertake a major redevelopment of Paddock Wood play area, continuing its commitment to providing safe, modern play facilities for Ashington's young people.

Significant investment has also been earmarked for capital improvements across the Council's allotment sites, addressing infrastructure needs including roads, water systems, and boundary fencing. Additionally, the Council has set aside £42,000 towards securing its own operational base for neighbourhood services, recognising the importance of having fit-for-purpose premises to support the growing work of the Council.

“This budget is about being financially responsible as well as ambitious”, said the Council’s Executive Officer, Sarah Eden. "We're setting aside money for the unexpected - as any well-run organisation should - whilst also saving towards the assets we manage now and hope to manage in the future. Whether that's play areas, allotments, or our own premises, it's about planning for the long term, not just the next twelve months."

Budget Highlights

• Band A households: £2.54 per year increase (21p per month) £79.84/annually
• Band D households: £3.82 per year increase (32p per month) £119.67/annually
• Community funding maintained: £120,000 (12% of budget)
• Enhanced events programme: Responding to resident feedback
• Major play area investment: Paddock Wood development
• Allotment infrastructure: £38,072 earmarked for capital improvements
• Operational base: £42,000 set aside for future premises
• Smart savings: Achieved through better contracting without service reduction

Cllr Lynne Grimshaw, Chair of the Finance and General Services Committee said, "The Finance and General Services Committee was pleased to recommend this budget to Full Council. It represents a careful balance between delivering the services and improvements our residents want to see, whilst maintaining financial stability and strong reserves which protect the Council's ability to respond to the unexpected. The Council’s entire budget costs most households in Ashington £1.53/week, this represents exceptional value for money and demonstrates our commitment to keeping costs as low as possible whilst still investing in Ashington's future."

Vice Chair of Council, Cllr John Tully said, "I was pleased to chair the Full Council meeting where this budget was approved. It reflects the priorities we've heard from residents - better community events, visible improvements to our streets and spaces, and continued support for our amazing voluntary and community sector. The Council has worked hard to find efficiencies and savings in operational budgets, allowing us to invest more in the things that matter most to our community. I'm confident this budget positions Ashington Town Council to deliver an excellent year of service for our residents."

The agreed budget is displayed below and is available in the agenda papers for the meeting, along with supporting reports.

Budget Meeting Papers