Looking Forward To The Future With Balanced 2026/27 Budget

Folkestone & Hythe District Council’s 2026/27 budget – the third in succession not to be funded from general reserves – has been approved.

While it provides £20m to be spent on key services supporting residents across the district, there is also a strong focus on the future.

£5m will be invested into council-owned temporary accommodation to provide more emergency housing, as well as securing the long-term prospects for Folca in Folkestone town centre.

There is also scope for progressing a refurbishment of Hythe Swimming Pool and leisure provision at Martello Lakes, and supporting the reopening of Folkestone Sports Centre with a one-time £2.4m contribution.

Meanwhile, an improved council tax reduction scheme further helping working age, low-income households will be introduced. On top of that, the community will benefit from more grants and a UK Town of Culture bid for Folkestone.

This is all on top of everyday services (street cleansing, household waste and recycling collection service, parks and open spaces, housing benefits, environmental health, planning etc) continuing to be delivered to a high standard.

Cllr Tim Prater, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Finance, said:

“This is the third budget of this administration and it’s the third time I’ve had the privilege of presenting a balanced one, not funded from general reserves.

“It’s that solid, responsible, financial management which has put us in a place where we can push on with investing in our facilities, residents and businesses.

“Clearly every budget is about choices. A £23m budget with thousands of income and expenditure lines cannot be perfect for everyone – but its intention and aspiration match that of this council.”

The budget is supported by a 2.99% increase in the district council’s portion of council tax (equivalent to approximately 17p a week for a Band D property) and revised non-statutory service fees and charges (largely in line with inflation).

While Folkestone & Hythe District Council is responsible for collecting council tax, more than 75% of that money is distributed to other organisations providing services for the community. Just 13% goes to Folkestone & Hythe District Council.

These include Kent County Council, the Office of the Kent Police and Crime Commissioner, Kent Fire and Rescue Service – as well as town and parish councils.