Lead Member – Councillor Roger Evans, Portfolio Holder for Finance

Lead Officer – James Walton, Executive Director (S151)

RESOLVED

a. To consider the Fees and Charges Policy attached at Appendix 1  

b. To recommend to Council the approval and adoption of the Fees and Charges Policy for 2026/27 and incorporation into the Medium-Term Financial Strategy and budget setting process in February 2026. 

To review and understand this organisation-wide framework for setting, reviewing, and managing all council fees and charges.

The Executive Director (S151) introduced the revised fees and charges pricing policy, highlighting the need for cost recovery, transparency, and market awareness, with £55 million of discretionary income identified and discussions on the impact of charges on service accessibility and local businesses.

Members noted that decisions on whether a service is statutory or discretionary are made on a case-by-case basis by service professionals and portfolio holders, with some services exceeding statutory requirements and requiring careful categorisation.

A request for future versions of the fees and charging policy detailing changes between versions for clarity was received.

Concerns were raised about the impact of charges on vulnerable groups, with calls to ensure leisure and social care services remain affordable to support long-term health and wellbeing, and recognition of statutory limits on some charges.

Members acknowledged the need to consider the effect of increased fees and charges on SMEs and sole traders, urging the Council to balance revenue needs with the viability of local businesses.