A consultation on a proposed increase in council tax of 4.99% for the year 2026-2027 will run from Monday, December 15 to midday on Monday, January 12, 2026.
The proposal was previously consulted on last December and January, and in February 2025 the council approved a two-year budget, with a presumption of a council tax rise in 2026-2027.
However, the council is legally required to consult on changes to council tax every year, meaning that people will have a second opportunity to voice their opinions.
A spokesperson for Bolton Council said:
“With household budgets squeezed by the cost of living, we’re very conscious that the last thing people want to think about is an increase in council tax.
“That said, the council provides many vital services like care for older and vulnerable adults, help for families, and regeneration projects that are improving our town centres.
“And as well as being under pressure to meet rising demand, the council is juggling the same increases in costs as everyone else.
“It means that without raising council tax we would need to look at further cuts to services.
“With all of that in mind, it’s important that we hear people’s feedback as we work to meet our legal requirement to deliver a balanced budget.”