West Northants Councillors’ Rural South Northamptonshire Ward Update

As we approach the festive season, we would like to share an important update regarding West Northamptonshire Council’s budget preparations for the 2026-27 financial year. While this is a time for celebration, we know many of you are concerned about the Council’s financial challenges and how they might affect our local community.

The Council is currently facing a projected £50 million shortfall. This gap is driven by the rising costs of demand led services such as social care for children and adults, SEND school transport, and temporary housing. Whilst £20 million in efficiencies have been identified, we are deeply concerned by several proposals within the current draft.

The draft includes proposals to introduce parking charges in Daventry, and Towcester.
We want to be clear with you that we are firmly against the introduction of new parking charges. We recognise that our rural residents do not have access to public transport links comparable to those in Northampton. Introducing charges in Daventry and Towcester, as well as new charges for Blue Badge holders across all council car parks, would unfairly penalize our residents and those with mobility needs.

Additionally, we are voicing our strong opposition to the proposal to increase Green Bin charges from £60 to £80. We believe a £20 increase is a significant burden to place on households at this time.These proposals are currently in draft form. They will be presented at the Cabinet meeting this Monday, 22 December 2025, which will trigger the start of a six-week public consultation.

We sincerely encourage you to participate in this consultation once it opens. Your feedback is vital as it will be reviewed before final proposals are presented in February 2026. We will continue to fight for a budget that is fair and reflects the needs of our rural ward and beyond.

We wish you all a very peaceful Christmas and a Happy New Year. We remain dedicated to representing you and ensuring your voices are heard.