At the Council’s December Executive meeting it was agreed to cut council tax for some of the city’s poorest residents and approve a ‘planning framework’ for York Central.

Labour introduced a Council Tax Support system in 2013 where everyone, regardless of income, pays at least 30% of their council tax. Under the new plans, the cap will be changed by 7.5% therefore reducing the cash payable by residents to below the national average. This means eligible residents will have to pay the remaining 22.5% of their bill as opposed to 30% – a 25% reduction which is estimated will save residents around £55 a year.

Cllr Carol Runciman, Liberal Democrat Executive Member for Health and Adult Social Care whose portfolio covers Financial Inclusion, moved the proposals at tonight’s meeting saying:

“At our August meeting, we took a decision to carry out a review of the Council Tax Support scheme put in place by the last administration. We did this after listening to the concerns of local residents and organisations such as Advice York. Our aim was to look at what more we could do to help residents and what the public thought about the current scheme. I would like to thank all those who took part in this consultation.

“The results show there is an appetite to do more and a recognition that setting the burden at 30% is too high – putting strain on those facing difficult financial decisions. However, what also came through in the consultation is that residents recognise council finances are tight. This is why I would suggest lifting the cap by 7.5% to bring York into line with national averages and reduce bills for residents.”

On York Central, a ‘planning framework’ was passed outlining proposals for new homes and jobs on the site. Cllr Keith Aspden, Liberal Democrat Deputy Leader of City of York Council and Executive Member for Economic Development, said after the meeting:

“Successfully redeveloping the ‘teardrop’ site is a big opportunity for York. It is an opportunity to deliver new jobs and houses as well as expand the National Railway Museum, improve the railway station and create new public squares, green spaces and transport routes for residents. Tonight should be the start of an ongoing conversation with residents on these plans.”