Have your say: Ross-on-Wye Town Council Budget Consultation 2026/27
1 May 2025
Ross-on-Wye Town Council is inviting all residents to participate in the Budget Consultation for 2026/27 as part of the preparations to set the precept for the next financial year. The precept represents the town council’s share of the council tax collected by Herefordshire Council and plays a crucial role in funding essential local services.
A short survey has been launched to gather the views and priorities of the community. Councillors rely on your feedback to guide their decisions and actions for the coming year. Your input is invaluable, and we encourage everyone to take the opportunity to share their opinions and help shape the future of Ross-on-Wye.
At the Annual Town Meeting on 28th April 2025, Councillor Julian Utting officially launched the budget consultation, emphasising its importance and urging all residents to complete the survey. For those requiring the survey in an alternative format, assistance is available by contacting the Town Council directly on 01989 562373.
About Your Council
Ross-on-Wye Town Council consists of 18 volunteer councillors elected every four years, supported by a dedicated team of nine paid staff. The council holds monthly council meetings, as well as various committee meetings throughout the year, focusing on areas such as Planning, Amenities, Finance, and Tourism and Events. Meetings are open to the public, and a full schedule can be found on the Council’s website.
What Was Achieved in 2024/25
Through careful planning and management of the budget, the town council has delivered a range of improvements, including:
- Renovating Market House
- Investing in additional Christmas lights
- Increasing community event activities
- Employing a street cleansing operative
- Enhancing facilities at Dean Hill Park and Ropewalk
Funding Sources
The council’s income is derived from several sources, including:
- The precept (£149.11 per year for a Band D property in 2025/26, amounting to £633,200 in total precept income for that year)
- Grant funding
- Market income
- Rental income from Ross Tennis Centre, The Corn Exchange, and Ross and Monmouth Sea and Marine Cadets
While exploring additional revenue streams to avoid increasing the tax burden on residents, the precept remains a vital funding component. The council also works in partnership with many dedicated local volunteers, such as Ross in Bloom, litter-picking groups, and footpath volunteers, who help enhance the quality of life in Ross-on-Wye.
Next Steps
The Budget Consultation survey is available online https://bit.ly/RTCBudgetConsultation2627 or can be found via the website www.rosstc-herefordshire.gov.uk/ and also in paper form at the Town Council offices at the Town Hall, Cantilupe Road, HR9 7AN. Your feedback will directly influence the council’s priorities and actions for 2026/27.
Please note: Matters relating to schools, roads, highways, waste collection, recycling, and other statutory responsibilities fall under the remit of Herefordshire Council. Contact Herefordshire Customer Services at 01432 260000 or visit https://www.herefordshire.gov.uk/council/get-involved/7 for further information.
Help shape the future of Ross-on-Wye—your opinion matters!