Have your say on paying more council tax for Northamptonshire policing and fire service
Time is running out to have your say on a proposed council tax increase to fund policing and fire and rescue services in Northamptonshire.
There are less than two weeks left to make your voice heard on how much you are willing to pay to support Northamptonshire Police and Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service next year.
With the public consultation closing at midday on January 5, 2026, people have been reminded to complete the survey before the deadline.
Northamptonshire Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner Danielle Stone sets the council tax precept – part of the council tax bill that funds local policing and fire services.
Ms Stone said: “It’s never easy to ask for more money, but it’s my responsibility to set the precept for Northamptonshire Police and Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service. I must balance the impact on taxpayers against the need to invest in these important public services so they can deliver on the public’s priorities.”
The consultation has been asking if people would be prepared to pay an increase of £14 or more a year towards local policing, and an increase of £5 or more a year towards their fire services, for a Band D property.
On December 17, the Government announced that it will allow commissioner’s to ask for £15 a year towards policing. Before setting this year’s precept, Ms Stone wants to hear as many views as possible to inform her, before she makes her precept proposals in February.
Local police and fire services rely on a combination of central government grants and the council tax precept, which accounts for around 18 per cent of a total council tax bill in Northamptonshire.
Planned investments include better policing hubs in Corby, Kettering and Towcester, building two new fire stations in Moulton and Kettering, and introducing new fire appliances, while maintaining police officer and firefighter numbers.
Ms Stone added: “Without the contribution that local people make through their council tax, we can’t deliver better services. Before I make this decision, I really want to hear from you – but time is running out.”
The survey closes at midday on Monday January 5, 2026. Complete it now at: www.research.net/r/OPFCCPR25