The District Councils’ Network has welcomed extra Government funding for its member councils, which was announced by Michael Gove in a written statement this afternoon.

The Levelling Up Secretary announced an extra one percentage point uplift in the minimum funding increase all councils will receive, taking it to 4%. This will primarily benefit district councils. The total increase in spending power for district councils will now be close to 6% in 2024-25.

He also revealed there would be extra funding for councils in rural locations and for councils affected by steep increases in Internal Drainage Board levies.

In response, Cllr Sam Chapman-Allen, Chairman of the District Councils’ Network, said:

“We welcome the Government’s decision to allocate additional funding for essential district services, a move that will benefit residents and businesses throughout England.

“This offers some relief to district councils and the communities we support. It will help mitigate potentially extensive reductions to valued local services. But it’s important to note that the financial and operating challenges for district councils remain significant.

“It is clear that more comprehensive solutions will still be needed to fully address the ongoing financial pressures, including homelessness.”