Agenda item

1.  Cabinet approved the proposed fees and charges on existing services to be implemented from 1 April 2025 as annotated on Appendix 1 to the report; and

2.  Cabinet noted that a formal review of fees and charges including the fees and charges framework would be completed by July 2025 to ensure that fees and charges had been set appropriately.

The Lead Member for Finance, Council Assets and Transformation introduced a report that sought approval for the proposed General Fund fees and charges as part of the budget for 2025/26.

The Council reviewed fees and charges on an annual basis in accordance with the agreed framework, including full cost recovery.  The approach was to seek to ensure the fees were transparent, fair, equitable and affordable.  It was noted that some of the adult social care fees and charges were subject of a separate report elsewhere on the Cabinet agenda.  There were two sets of charges where stretch targets had been set - planning and parking fees - and the risk reserve could potentially be utilised if necessary.

The Appendix to the report included a full list of fees and charges proposed for 2025/26 and the Cabinet was asked to approve them insofar as they related to Executive functions.  Non-executive fees and charges would be considered by the Licensing Committee on 3^rd March 2025.

Lead Members asked questions about several of the specific fees and charges.  Officers responded to the queries raised.  Overall it was agreed that the proposed changes were proportionate and continued to offer good value for money.  The recommendations were agreed.

Resolved –

(a)  That the proposed fees and charges on existing services to be implemented from 1 April 2025 as annotated on Appendix 1 to the report be approved; and

(b)  That it be noted that a formal review of fees and charges including the fees and charges framework would be completed by July 2025 to ensure that fees and charges had been set appropriately.

(Councillor Shah joined the meeting)