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North Yorkshire councillors could receive 2.6 per cent allowance rise

North Yorkshire Council HQ in Northallerton.

North Yorkshire councillors could see their annual basic allowance rise to £18,431 under proposals due to go before the council.

The recommended 2.6 per cent increase would add £467 to the current £17,964 payment for the 2027/28 financial year.

Special responsibility allowances, paid to councillors who take on additional duties, would also rise by 2.6 per cent.

This would increase those payments by a combined £12,455 a year, taking the total to £491,501.

The proposals come from North Yorkshire Council’s Independent Remuneration Panel, which reviews members’ allowances annually.

The recommended increase is linked to the annual Consumer Prices Index (CPI) rate of inflation to June 2026.

The council’s executive will consider the recommendations on Tuesday 27th October, before councillors make a final decision at a full council meeting on Wednesday 18th November.

Panel chair Philip Battle said:

“The panel has again undertaken a thorough review of councillors’ allowances to ensure they remain fair, proportionate and reflective of the responsibilities and time commitment associated with the role of an elected member.

“In reaching our recommendations, we considered allowances paid by comparable local authorities alongside a range of factors, including inflation, wider economic pressures and the evolving demands placed on councillors in North Yorkshire.

“We recognise the significant contribution councillors make in representing their communities and providing democratic leadership across the county.

"Our view is that the recommended allowances strike an appropriate balance between recognising those responsibilities and ensuring value for money for residents.”

If approved, the total annual cost of basic allowances would reach approximately £1.64 million, according to the council.

North Yorkshire Council leader Cllr Carl Les said:

“I would like to thank the independent panel for carrying out this review and providing its recommendations.

“Being a councillor is a significant commitment, requiring members to balance their council duties with work, family life and other responsibilities.

"It is important that the allowances scheme remains fair, proportionate and supports people from a wide range of backgrounds to serve their communities.

“The panel’s recommendations will now be considered, and any agreed allowances remain a matter for individual councillors to decide whether they wish to claim.”

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