Witney Town Council has approved a modest increase to its precept for the 2026/27 financial year, resulting in an additional cost of £0.83 per month for residents in an average Band D property. This increase will allow the Council to continue delivering and improving essential local services across the town while planning responsibly for the future.
The Council’s work is guided by its Vision: “To improve the quality of life for present and future generations in Witney by promoting sustainability, inclusivity, and community wellbeing,” and its Mission: “To make Witney a great place to live, work and visit.” These principles underpin the Council’s commitment to putting people first, protecting and enhancing the natural environment, and ensuring Witney thrives economically, socially, and environmentally for generations to come.
Looking ahead, the Council will continue working in partnership with local community groups and, through the Town Centre Forum, engage more closely with businesses to support a thriving local economy.
The precept contributes just 8% of residents’ total council tax and supports a wide range of services that benefit the whole community. The Town Council maintains parks, cemeteries, flowerbeds, verges, roundabouts, and other green spaces, ensuring Witney remains attractive and welcoming. The Council also funds community initiatives, including grants, Christmas lights, civic and third-party events, The Station youth work, and the town bus service. In addition, it is responsible for a variety of local amenities, such as sports pitches, the wheeled sports park, the Corn Exchange (public halls and 1863 café and bar), the lake and country park, street furniture, and allotments. In all, it provides spaces and facilities that enhance everyday life for residents and visitors alike.
The approved budget also allows for prudent retention of earmarked reserves for ongoing and future projects and considers the potential impacts of the devolution of local government, ensuring the Council is prepared for new opportunities and responsibilities.
At a meeting on Monday 2nd February, Councillors confirmed the precept increase. From April, the average Band D property will contribute £213.35 annually, an increase of £9.98 from last year. Witney Town Council remains committed to responsible financial management, reinvesting in the community, and ensuring the town continues to grow sustainably for future generations.
Cllr Ruth Smith, Leader of Witney Town Council, said:
“This budget equips the council to keep driving improvements for Witney. This year you will see a brilliant upgrade to West Witney Sports Club, with 3G as the next project and you will see padel courts at The Leys and a new facility at Windrush Place. Public halls will be made as green and energy efficient as possible. The arts will continue to flourish at the Corn Exchange and the Lake will be made even more accessible. We all chip in for this so that our community is resilient, rested and cohesive and will sail through whatever happens when the other councils are reorganised.”