Taking a Look at the District's Financial Future

Residents have the opportunity to comment on Folkestone & Hythe District Council’s budget strategy for 2026/27.

Setting out initial plans for general spending and income generation priorities, the documents also set out valuable economic context and a timetable for delivering a balanced budget.

The key points include:

• Approximately £20m to be spent on key services including street cleansing, the household waste and recycling service, maintaining parks and open spaces, social housing and environmental protection in 2026/27
• Capital projects totalling £55m across the district over the five-year period leading to 2030/31
• A 2.99% increase of the district council’s proportion of council tax (equivalent approximately 17p per week for a Band D property). Fees and charges for non-statutory services have also been revised, largely in line with inflation

Those wishing to comment on the proposed approach have until midday on Friday 30 January 2026 to share their views.

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

“Budgets are never easy, but we have tried to hit the right balance whilst also delivering a balanced budget.

“This budget would protect all services, keep our council tax rise down to 3% (which on our portion is an increase of about 17p a week for a Band D property).

“At the same time, we’ll be delivering changes to our council tax reduction scheme to make it simpler for those in most need.

“We’ll also be investing £5m in buying new temporary accommodation to better serve the increased number of people facing homelessness, while also protecting our budget from the rising cost of short-term rentals.”

Visit the council’s website to comment on and read the detailed supporting documents. Alternatively, visit the Civic Centre in Folkestone during office hours.

All feedback submitted during the consultation will be considered as the detailed draft budget is developed. It will then be voted on by elected members in February 2026.