Hart District Council’s Cabinet has put forward their draft revenue and capital budget proposals for approval at the February Full Council meeting.
With the Government bringing in local government reorganisation across Hampshire, the draft 2026/2027 budget is focused on contributing to Hart’s legacy and protecting local services for residents.
In the face of a difficult financial environment, careful management and efficiencies in successive budgets have meant Hart District Council can continue to provide vital services. They also remain committed to supporting the community groups who work tirelessly across Hart for the good of our residents.
Plans for a new Hart Community Facilities Grant scheme will invite bids from community organisations for funding to improve and expand facilities over the next two years. This scheme aims to ensure these are in a strong position by the time new unitary authorities are introduced in 2028. £400K has been earmarked for this purpose, in addition to the other Community Grant schemes and core funding offered throughout the year totalling over £200K.
The Council will also maintain levels of council tax support. The current scheme supports 2,700 low-income households in Hart and provides much needed help for keeping bills down in a continuing challenging cost of living environment.
Recommendations have been made for a 2.99% Council Tax increase in the district element of the charge. For the average Band D household in Hart, this equates to an extra £6.10 per year from their 2025/2026 bill. This will raise an extra £264K per annum while parking charges and garden waste collections remain at 2025 levels.
Councillor James Radley, Deputy Leader of Hart District Council and Portfolio Holder for Finance, said: “Providing the vital services our residents rely on will always be the number one priority. With the decision on local government reorganisation options expected shortly, we are pleased to deliver a budget that will protect our residents whatever the outcome.
“Seeing the work across our district funded by Council grants makes us proud of the community that thrives in Hart and we’ll continue to support this in any way we can."