Town Council Precept Increase Explained

Wem Town Council has approved an increase in its precept request for the coming financial year, by £34,000. This results in an 8% increase in the Town Council element of Council Tax for a Band D property, which in real terms represents an increase of £1.41 per month.

The Council wishes to reassure residents that, aside from an inflationary increase of 4.5% across all budget headings, the additional increase is primarily due to an increased financial contribution it has agreed to make to Wem Swimming and Lifestyle Centre. This additional funding is intended to help support the ongoing running of the swimming pool and to ensure that this vital community facility remains open for the benefit of residents of all ages.

Wem Swimming and Lifestyle Centre is widely recognised as an important asset for the town, supporting health, wellbeing, learning, and community activity. The Council considers its continued operation to be of significant value to Wem and its surrounding area.

Commenting on the decision, Councillor Barker, Deputy Mayor, said:

“It was a really difficult decision to request an above-inflation increase this year. However, the Town Council is committed to offering good value for money in all the activities and services it provides to the residents of Wem. Supporting the swimming pool is about protecting a much-loved and well-used community resource.”

Wem Town Council remains committed to managing its finances responsibly and ensuring transparency in how public money is spent, while continuing to support services and facilities that matter most to the community.