Lincolnshire County Council’s Conservative leadership has reaffirmed its commitment to keeping council tax among the lowest in the UK, despite recent reports of potential penalties for councils that maintain low taxation rates.

Councillor Martin Hill OBE, council leader, stated: “We have always taken pride in balancing the books while protecting vital services. Lincolnshire residents should not be punished for benefiting from efficient, effective governance.”

A Record of Fiscal Responsibility

Lincolnshire’s Conservatives have consistently delivered a strong record of low council tax rates alongside investments in critical areas like highway maintenance, flood prevention, and children’s services. This prudent approach has allowed the county to provide quality services without overburdening taxpayers despite national funding challenges.

For example:

• Highways spending has been increased to £112 million for 2024/25, helping to reduce potholes and improve rural roads .

• Significant investments in flood prevention, such as the £4 million additional allocation in 2023, have safeguarded communities .

• Over £7 million was invested in mainstream schools last year, creating over 200 new places .

“Conservatives in Lincolnshire have proven that we can deliver efficient, high-quality services without excessive taxation,” Councillor Hill added.

Standing Up for Local Decision-Making

Recent suggestions that councils could face penalties for lowering council tax have raised concerns among local leaders. Lincolnshire Conservatives argue that decisions on local taxation should remain with councils, reflecting the needs and priorities of their communities.

“Local people know best what their area needs,” said Councillor Patricia Bradwell OBE. “Imposing penalties on councils like ours undermines the principle of devolution and threatens the financial well-being of families already feeling the pinch of higher living costs.”

Investing in the Future

Despite budget pressures, Lincolnshire continues demonstrating fiscal responsibility while investing in the future. Recent achievements include:

• Upgraded children’s services, rated ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted, and new Family Hubs offering comprehensive support for families .

• Innovative green initiatives, such as rolling out electric vehicle charging points and switching to LED streetlights, align with the council’s net-zero ambitions

• Ongoing support for rural transport through the popular Call Connect service, which carried over 290,000 passengers last year .

A Conservative Vision for Lincolnshire

The Conservatives’ focus on efficient management and low taxation reflects their broader values of self-reliance, community-driven solutions, and fiscal prudence. At the same time, their commitment to traditional Lincolnshire values—protecting the vulnerable, promoting economic opportunity, and enhancing rural life—remains at the forefront of their agenda.

As calls grow for more local decision-making powers, the Conservatives have pledged to continue lobbying for devolution and a fairer funding formula for rural counties like Lincolnshire.

“This is about fairness,” said Councillor Hill. “It’s about ensuring local communities thrive without being penalised for prudent financial management. We will continue to stand up for Lincolnshire and ensure our residents get the services they deserve.”

Lincolnshire Conservatives invite residents to share their views and priorities at upcoming local meetings and consultations.