The authority says it is necessary to address the rising demand for key services including housing.
The Council says to support priority investments, it is proposing a 2.99% increase in core Council Tax, alongside a 2% increase in the Adult Social Care precept.
The precept charged by the Mayor of London will increase by 4.03%, meaning the total Band D bill will rise to £2,372.07, an overall increase of 4.79%
Councillor Gareth Roberts, Leader of Richmond Council, said: “This Council Tax increase is necessary to address the rising demand for services in key areas, including social care and housing, and to continue delivering the high-quality services our residents expect.
“We are acutely aware of the financial pressures our residents are facing, and we don’t make this decision lightly. However, this increase is essential to ensure we can continue to provide the range of services that make Richmond a great place to live.
“This is not just about maintaining what we have today, but about investing in the future of our borough,” said Councillor Roberts.
The budget proposals will be discussed at the Finance, Policy and Resources Committee meeting on Thursday, the 13th of February, with Full Council set to consider them on Tuesday, the 4th of March.
The Council is prioritising key areas for investment in the upcoming financial year to ensure it continues providing vital services while addressing growing needs, including:
• driving record levels of investment in roads and pavements to improve infrastructure and safety
• funding new, purpose-built community facilities for Ham, Teddington and Whitton to support social, learning, and creative activities
• improving leisure facilities, parks, and community spaces to promote active lifestyles and wellbeing
• supporting local businesses, high streets, and tourism to encourage economic growth
• boosting affordable housing supply and continuing Richmond’s commitment as a Borough of Sanctuary
• increasing special educational needs school places to ensure every child can succeed
• delivering high-quality social care services to support the most vulnerable residents
• maintaining a clean borough through effective partnerships with street cleaning and waste recycling contractors
• strengthening climate resilience, including improved flood prevention measures, as part of the Council’s climate emergency strategy.
