Council tax leaflet 2015

www.bathnes.gov.uk

YOUR GUIDETo local Council spendingand Council Tax 2015 - 2016

Council Tax and BenefitsFor Council Tax enquiries including benefits, exemptions and discounts:l Visit www.bathnes.gov.uk and follow the links to Council Tax and Benefitsl Email us about your Council Tax: [email protected] l Email us about Benefits: [email protected] Tel: 01225 47 77 77 (during office hours) Fax: 01225 47 78 09l Post: Customer Services, Lewis House, Manvers Street, Bath, BA1 1JGl Visit us in person at One Stop Shops in Bath, Keynsham and Midsomer Norton

Reporting suspicions of benefit fraudAll reports are treated confidentially. Call us on 01225 47 77 77 (during office hours) or the National Benefit Fraud Hotline on 0800 854 440. You can also email: [email protected]

Council ConnectReport It online – use our web form to report issues about litter, graffiti, broken paving slabs, missed waste collections, abandoned vehicles and more. Go to www.bathnes.gov.uk/reportit

You can also contact us by phone or email with enquiries relating to waste, recycling, transport, roads, general planning applications and libraries. This service is available Monday - Friday, with some self-service options out of hours.

Tel: 01225 39 40 41 Text (SMS): 07797 80 65 45 Twitter: @ccbathnes

Email: [email protected] or visit www.bathnes.gov.uk/contactus

In person

Most of the above services are available at One Stop Shops in Bath, Keynsham and Midsomer Norton. Opening times of our offices may vary. Please visit www.bathnes.gov.uk/contactus or call 01225 39 40 41 for more information.

This publication can be made available in a range of languages, large print, Braille, on tape, electronic and accessible formats

from the Communications & Marketing Team on 01225 477495 or email [email protected]

Photography courtesy of Bath News and Media Group

Contacting the Council

www.bathnes.gov.uk

Welcome to your guide to local authority spending in Bath and North East Somerset.

This guide includes details of how Bath & North East Somerset Council continues to deliver services; an explanation of what your Council Tax bill means, plus a breakdown of how your money is spent; and a handy services directory. The guide also sets out the charges for Town & Parish Council precepts, as well as charges from the Police and Fire services. It also includes details of the Environment Agency levy in respect of flood protection.

Bath & North East Somerset Council strives to deliver outstanding services to local people while investing in the future prosperity of the area. This is a challenge given the financial climate and the significant reduction in the amount we receive in Government funding. The Council therefore needs to manage its finances sensibly on behalf of local taxpayers.

In setting this year’s budget the Council has focussed on supporting vulnerable people in the community, whilst investing in the future prosperity of our communities with new homes, jobs and local facilities.

The Council recognises the ongoing pressure on household incomes and has been able to deliver over £30 million in savings while freezing Council Tax for the fifth year running.

In the years to come, the Council will face further financial pressures and will need to make further savings or generate additional income.

The Council wants to hear your views. We will listen and act on them. We are keen to hear from you if you have an opinion on which services we should make a priority, or how we can improve services at a lower cost.

You can write to us via email at [email protected]

Foreword

2 3www.bathnes.gov.uk

4 5www.bathnes.gov.ukwww.bathnes.gov.uk

ftGo Digital in 2015/16Over the coming years, even more information and services will become available digitally; there are already many ways in which you can access Council information and services – 2015/16 really is the year to Go Digital.

There is lots of information about our services at www.bathnes.gov.uk

1. Report It – people can report all manner of issues like missed waste collections, potholes, litter grot spots, graffiti, abandoned vehicles, and broken street lights quickly and conveniently.

Website: www.bathnes.gov.uk/reportit

2. Get Tweeting – access and share the latest news and information, or use Twitter to get in contact with Council Connect instantly. Share your photos and experiences instantly.

Tweet us: @ccbathnes to get in touch with Council Connect Follow us: @bathnes for News, Events, Information

3. Pay for it – 24 hours, pay online payment service for Council Tax, Business Rates, Council Invoices, Commercial Rent, Mortgages, PCN - Penalty Charge Notices, Annual Garden Waste subscriptions, FPN - Fixed Penalty Notices and Business Improvement District bills, Allotment rent, Curo rent, Libraries local studies fees, HMO licences, Licences and School Transport.

Website: www.bathnes.gov.uk/pay

4. Email & Text SMS – Contact Council Connect 24 hours a day with reports, concerns, and issues – you can also obtain information about services like local libraries, public transport and waste facilities.

Email: [email protected] Text SMS: 0779 7806545

5. What’s On – Find out about the latest events going on in your community all year round and add them completely free of charge.

Website: www.bathnes.gov.uk/events

6. View Planning and Licensing Applications – anybody can view planning and licensing applications in their communities online swiftly and easily. Can’t find what you are looking for? Email or Text SMS Council Connect.

Website: www.bathnes.gov.uk/planningapps www.bathnes.gov.uk/licensingapps

7. View Meetings Live – Watch Council meetings live via computer, tablet or smartphone, from the comfort of your own home. Watch the latest meeting www.bathnes.gov.uk/webcast.

Access services on the move! You can access www.bathnes.gov.uk via a mobile website on your phone or tablet computer. Our website will detect what gadget you are using and automatically switch to a mobile site specially designed for mobile devices. Alternatively, you can bookmark the mobile site on www.m.bathnes.gov.uk

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Council Tax information ......................................................7

What if your circumstances change? ...................................8

Council Tax appeals ............................................................9

Your Council Tax bill explained .........................................10

Living within your means - delivering value for money .....12

Why spending has increased/decreased ............................13

Reserves & Council debt...................................................13

Where each £1 of your Council Tax will go in 2015/16 .....15

Summary of average Band D charge .................................15

Further information ...........................................................15

Parish & Town Councils - Precepts ...................................16

Services Directory ............................................................18

Environment Agency South West Region ..........................24

Avon & Somerset Police ...................................................28

Avon Fire Authority ...........................................................30

Some Council spending is financed by Central Government and the balance is raised through the collection of Council Tax. The money we collect goes towards the cost of services provided by the Council, Avon & Somerset Police Authority, Avon Fire Authority and Parish and Town Councils.

Your Council Tax bill is the legal notice that details the amount you need to pay.

Could you reduce your Council Tax bill?The following sections provide an introduction to Council Tax discounts, exemptions and other help available to reduce your bill. Get in touch with Customer Services if you need more advice. Our contact details are provided on page 2.

Property & student exemptionsSome properties are classed as ‘exempt’ and this means that you will not have to pay any Council Tax. For example this includes:l a granny annexe occupied by a

dependant relative over 65l properties occupied wholly by studentsl properties left unoccupied, under

certain circumstances.

Council Tax informationContents

This document is published on the Council’s website at

www.bathnes.gov.uk

Bath & North East Somerset Council will not use or disclose your Council Tax information

for a purpose that falls outside the limits of its statutory responsibility, unless you give your consent. The only exception to this is where the disclosure of Council Tax information is

required or permitted by law.

Published by Bath & North East Somerset Council’s Print Services, Dartmouth Avenue, Oldfield Park, Bath BA2 1AS

DP 3716 03/14 SC

Council Tax discountsYour Council Tax bill is based on two or more adults living in a property. If you are the only adult living in your home, your bill may be reduced by 25%.

There are also some people we don’t ‘count’ when looking at the number of adults in a property. A discount may apply if someone who lives with you is:

l a full-time student

l in prison

l a person who is severely mentally impaired

l a care worker, depending on certain conditions

l an 18 - 19 year old school leaver

l a religious community member

l a member of visiting Forces

7

On 1 April 2014, the Government introduced a new discount for family annexes.If you have an annexe which is lived in by a family member, a 50% discount can be applied to the Council Tax bill for that annexe. This discount is based on occupation of the annexe by a resident of the main building, or by a family member. If a non-family member occupies the annexe the discount will not apply.

8 9

Valuation band Ranges of values Proportion of Band D

A Up to and including £40,000 6/9

B £40,001 - £52,000 7/9

C £52,001 - £68,000 8/9

D £68,001 - £88,000 1

E £88,001 - £120,000 11/9

F £120,001 - £160,000 13/9

G £160,001 - £320,000 15/9

H More than £320,000 2

If your bill shows you are receiving a discount or you apply in the future, any change in your circumstances could affect your entitlement. You have a legal duty to tell us within 21 days, or you may incur a penalty charge. This authority is under a duty to protect the public funds it administers, and to this end may use the information you have provided for the prevention and detection of fraud. It may also share this information with other bodies responsible for auditing or administering public funds for these purposes. For further information, see the Council’s website (www.bathnes.gov.uk under National Fraud Initiative) or contact the Information Compliance Manager.

Council Tax reductions for people with disabilitiesDo you, or someone who lives with you, need extra space in your property to meet the special needs arising from a disability? For example, you might qualify for a reduction if this included using a wheelchair indoors, or needing an extra room, bathroom or kitchen.

Help paying Council Tax for people on a low incomeIf you’re on a low income, you might be entitled to some help towards paying your Council Tax. Council Tax Support reduces the amount you have to pay and is taken straight off your bill. To apply, you’ll need to give us information about your income and any savings, and details about the people who live with you.

For further information and appeals about valuation bands contact:

The Listing Officer, Council Tax West,Overline House, Blechynden Terrace, Southampton, SO15 1GW

Telephone: 03000 501 501.

If you disagree with the valuation banding for your property, you need to contact the Valuation Office Agency (VOA). Their contact details are provided on the right. The grounds of appeal are restricted to specific circumstances.

More information about valuation bands and when you can appeal are available at www.bathnes.gov.uk in the Council Tax section.

Council Tax appeals

What if your circumstances change?Council Tax valuation bandsThe amount of Council Tax you pay depends on your property band, which is included on your bill. The VOA, which is part of H.M. Revenue & Customs, puts every property into one of eight valuation bands according to its open market value at 1 April 1991. All the bands are shown in the table below:

www.bathnes.gov.uk www.bathnes.gov.uk

Paying your Council Tax – 12 month optionIf you haven’t already asked us to spread your payments over 12 months, your annual Council Tax bill will automatically have been broken down into 10 monthly instalments, payable between April and January. If you wish to take up the option of 12 monthly instalments for your 2015/16 annual bill, please write to Customer Services (see page 2) by 15 April 2015. If you contact us after this date, your current bill will be recalculated to give the maximum number of instalments available for the rest of the year, up to March 2016. Your future annual bills will automatically be payable over 12 months.

By law, you must continue to pay your Council Tax as normal until your appeal has been resolved. You can appeal if you think that:

l we have made a mistake in the calculation of your Council Tax billl you think that you are not liable to pay the bill

In these cases, please write to Customer Services (see page 2).

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Why not sign up for Direct Debit today?

Customer Services, Lewis House, Manvers Street, Bath BA1 1JG Telephone: 01225 47 77 77 Email: [email protected]

Account Number

Your property has been valued in Band

If this bill shows you are receiving a discount or you apply in the future, please read the important message overleaf.

Not paying by Direct Debit?Why not sign up today…

YOUR COUNCIL TAX BILL IS MADE UP AS FOLLOWS:-

AMOUNT PAYABLE BY YOU £

INSTALMENT DETAILS

INSTALMENT TO BE PAID BY: CASH PAYMENTS MONTHLYFIRST INSTALMENT DUE ON 01/02/2015OTHER INSTAMLMENT DUE ON 01/03/2015

How the tax is arrived at for your band Amount for 2015/2016£

% change from 2014/2015

Reason for Bill

Date of Issue

Council Tax Bill 2015-2016

www.bathnes.gov.uk www.bathnes.gov.uk

This is the number you need to quote when

making a payment or contacting us about your

Council Tax account

Name of liable person(s)

Billing address

The general charge by the Council - this is the amount which the Council needs to

raise from the Council Tax in order to provide its main

services

Charge set byAvon Fire Authority

Charge set by a Parish or Town Council - if you live in a parish or town area, your

Parish or Town Council may issue an amount to finance

its expenditure

Charge set by Avon & Somerset Police Authority

Charge for the year

Details of any exemptions or discounts you are

receiving

Notes to inform you of any credits or debit from previous financial years

Dates of instalments

Method of payment

10th March 20151234567890

MR A SAMPLE1 ANY STREETANY DISTRICTANY TOWNBA1 XX2

Charge for period Band C 01-Apr-2015 31-Mar-2016 £1044.71Less Void Property Relief 01-Apr-2015 31-Mar-2016 -£1044.71

£879.48 0.0£5.16 5.7£43.32 0.0£116.75 0.0£1044.71 0.0

£00.00

MR A SAMPLE1 ANY STREETANY DISTRICTANY TOWNBA1 XX2

C

Date your Council Tax bill was issued

Address of property if different from billing address

The Council Tax Band for your property which is set by the Valuation Office Agency

Total due for the year before any reductions for discounts or exemptions

The adjustments madeas a result of any exemptions or discounts

Total amount payable

Number of instalmentsand amounts due

Please Note: This is a fictitious Council Tax bill made up for explanatory purposes

Bath & North East SomersetCombined Fire AuthorityTown/Parish ofAvon & Somerset Police

As at 21-Feb-2015 your 2014/2015 Council Tax a/c is in credit by -98.50This has reduced your 2015/2016 account to leave a balance of 19.03The credit from 2014/2015 has been used to reduce your 2015/2016 instalments

First instalment due 01-Aprl-2015 1 x 1.039 other instalments due on 01-May-2015 to 01-Jan-2016 9 x 2.00Instalments to be paid by: Cash Payments Monthly

Your Council Tax bill explained

12 13www.bathnes.gov.ukwww.bathnes.gov.uk

TheCouncilhassetitsnetrevenuebudgetfor2015/16at£119.914mThisrepresentsanincreaseof£0.673m.Thebuildupisshownbelow.

Living within your means – delivering value for money

The following information shows where every £1 of Bath & North East Somerset Council’s Council Tax is spent. This is based on net spend after deducting income generated by services and grants including the Dedicated Schools Grant.

Children’s Services 23.9pThe Council ensures school places for around 25,000 pupils in 78 schools and Academies locally and funds home to school transport and support services for schools. Funds and provides youth services and children’s centre services plus social care and support for 750 of the most vulnerable young people.

Adult Social Services 45.4pEach year Adult Social Services provides around 2,200 care packages for elderly and disabled people, supports 1,100 people to use our Personal Budget programme giving them choice over their care, and home improvement services to around 2,000 people.

Refuse Collection & Disposal 10.1pWe provide a weekly kerbside collection of domestic food waste, small electricals and other recyclables, a fortnightly collection of garden waste and a weekly collection of general waste. We run three Recycling Centres and over 170 communal mini recycling centres for flats. In 2013-14 we sent for re-use, recycling or composting 48% of all household waste generated within Bath and North East Somerset.

Highways 7.3pOver 960 miles of highway maintenance, surfacing, gullies, street lighting, winter

gritting and traffic signals. We also improve network safety and manage public rights of way.

Transport, Planning & Economic Development 4.2pOver 50 supported bus services, around 7,000 parking spaces, three Park & Ride sites. Deal with around 3,000 Planning & Listed Building Applications each year. Development of the planning policies and visions for Bath, Keynsham and Radstock / Midsomer Norton.

Housing & Environmental Services 5.8pResponsible for undertaking the Council’s strategic housing role to assist around 4,000 households each year, inspections and interventions in 2,000 food businesses and over 3,400 licences.

Funding Capital Projects and charges 2.6pPayment of debt charges on loans to fund spending on current and previous capital schemes and payment of debt

charges on the Council’s allocation of debt inherited from the former Avon County Council.

The remaining 0.7p funds services including libraries, cemeteries, recreation, tourism and cleansing

Why spending has increased/decreased

Reserves & Council debt

£m

Net Revenue Base Budget rolled forward 2015/16 119.241

One-off Allocations 0.949

Contractual and Unavoidable Inflation 3.169

New Legislation / Government Initiatives 2.486

Increased Service Volumes 1.891

Other 1.903

Total including Growth 129.639

Change Programme and Efficiency Savings -3.358

Increases in Income from fees, charges and other grants -4.134

Service Reduction -2.233

Council’s Net Revenue Budget 2015/16 119.914

At the start of 2015/16, the Council is expected to have unearmarked reserves of £8.3m against a risk assessed target level of £10.5m. The difference of £2.2m relates to the temporary use of reserves for invest to save schemes which pay back reserves in the future. The Council’s risk assessed minimum level of unearmarked reserves is set at £6m.

In addition to these reserves, the Council has provision in earmarked reserves, including for affordable

housing of £3m, supporting costs of change and restructuring of £4.9m, financial planning and contingency of £6.3m, and £2.9m to support the Council’s transformation programme. These reserves are anticipated to be fully utilised over the medium term.

The Council has £14m of debt that is managed by Bristol City Council and relates to the former Avon County Council. The estimated level of the Council’s own borrowing at the start of 2015/16 is £108.3m.

14 15www.bathnes.gov.uk www.bathnes.gov.uk

RevenueBudget2015-16WheretheCouncilspendsmoney2015/16-£321.1m-grossspendbefore

takingaccountofincome

Other Services £28.69m 9.0% (14/15 £27.02m)Refuse Collection & Disposal

£14.44m 4.5% (14/15 £14.83m)

Dedicated Schools Grant Spend £77.74m 24.2% (14/15 £73.92m)

Funding Capital Projects Charges £3.25m 1.0% (14/15 £3.25m)

Retained Business RatesTariff Payment £9.84m 3.1%

(14/15 £9.65m)

Children’s Services £36.67m 11.4% (14/15 £42.68m)

Highways £9.23m 2.9% (14/15 £9.05m)

Adult Social Services £85.82m 26.7% (14/15 £89.26m)

Housing, Environmental & Consumer Services £9.40m 2.9% (14/15 £9.86m)

Planning, Transport & Economic Development£19.30m 6.0% (14/15 £19.76m)

Libraries, Recreation & Tourism £17.91m 5.6% (14/15 £17.97m)

Wherethemoneycomesfromtopayforalltheservices2015/16-£321.1m

CapitalBudget2015-16TotalApprovedSpend£57.9m

Bath & North East Somerset Council 81pAvon & Somerset Police 12pAvon Fire Authority 5pAverage Parish/ Charter Trust 2p

Band D % increase

Bath & North East Somerset £1,201.85 0.00% Avon & Somerset Police £174.78 1.99% Avon Fire Authority £66.60 1.99% Average Parish £35.99 0.76%

Overall Average Band D £1,479.22 0.34%

(Figures shown are for at least a two person household) The Council’s Council Tax Requirement (excluding Police, Fire & Parishes) for 2015/16 is £74.455m and including Parishes is £76.685m

If you have any questions on the 2015/16 budget for Bath & North East Somerset Council please write to: Divisional Director – Business Support, Bath & North East Somerset Council, Guildhall, High Street, Bath BA1 5AW or email: [email protected] or visit our website at www.bathnes.gov.uk

Where each £1 of your Council Tax goes in 2015/16

Summary of average Band D charge

For further information

Public Health £8.77m 2.7% (14/15 £7.68m)

Adult Social Services specific grants and charges £31.43m 9.8% (14/15 £29.93m)

Planning, Highways and Car Parking Charges £14.67m 4.6% (14/15 £14.63m)

Museums, Leisure, Recreation & Tourism£16.59m 5.3% (14/15 £16.59m)

Property rental and fees income £17.10m 5.3% (14/15 £16.90m)

Housing and Environmental & Consumer Services £2.39m 0.7% (14/15 £2.39m)

Operational Services and other income £17.84m 5.5% (14/15 £24.90m)

Government Revenue Support Grant (RSG) £20.50m 6.4% (14/15 £26.47m)

Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG) £77.74m 24.2% (14/15 £73.92m)

Retained Business Rates (Before Tariff Payment) £31.58m 9.8% (14/15 £30.61m)

Council Tax £74.46m 23.2% (14/15 £72.63m)

Children’s Services specific grants and charges £7.99m 2.5% (14/15 £8.33m)

Public Health specific grant £8.77m 2.7% (14/15 £7.68) Bath & North East

Somerset Council 82p

Keynsham Regeneration and Office Replacement £4.5m 8%

Adult Social Care & Housing (including BWR) 6.2m 11% Tourism Leisure & Culture £0.7m 1%

Other Regeneration Schemes £11.5m 20%

Property and Support Services £6.4m 11% Transport & Highways £17.5m 30%

Children’s Services £9.2m 16%

Neighbourhoods & Waste (inc. Vehicle Replacement) £1.9m 3%

Avon & Somerset Police 12p

Avon Fire Authority 5pAverage Parish /

Charter Trust 2p

16 17www.bathnes.gov.uk www.bathnes.gov.uk

Parish & Town Councils - Precepts 2014/15 2015/16 Band D Precept £ Precept £ Parish £ 4,000 4,500 Newton St. Loe 69.06 0 0 North Stoke 0.00 4,000 4,000 Norton Malreward 36.23 199,810 214,250 Paulton 116.94 160,967 162,771 Peasedown St. John 77.45 5,460 6,210 Priston 49.98 11,000 11,000 Publow & Pensford 23.26 196,757 207,968 Radstock 133.85 750 750 St. Catherine 19.01 29,395 29,702 Saltford 16.63 6,437 6,813 Shoscombe 42.07 6,680 7,680 South Stoke 33.69 8,416 8,416 Stanton Drew 26.89 16,730 18,730 Stowey Sutton 31.64 2,800 2,800 Swainswick 21.05 47,000 47,000 Timsbury 51.57 6,730 6,730 Ubley 38.79 9,768 10,115 Wellow 41.96 7,500 8,000 West Harptree 40.64 158,850 171,810 Westfield 96.79 20,000 25,000 Whitchurch 55.77 2,158,571 2,229,685 TOTAL

For information on calculating the charge for different property bands, see the Council Tax Valuation Bands paragraph on page 9 If your parish precept is£140,000 or above in 2015/16, a leaflet which includes details about how the parish money is spent in your area is also available online at www.bathnes.gov.uk/ctaxguide.

The Council Tax charges shown below relate to the charge for the Parish Council, Town Council or Charter Trustee element only

2014/15 2015/16 Band D Precept £ Precept £ Parish £ 193,843 198,524 Bath 6.58 23,000 23,000 Bathampton 31.96 30,000 35,000 Batheaston 32.23 16,895 16,884 Bathford 21.54 18,750 20,000 Cameley 46.27 11,500 12,075 Camerton 49.77 1,470 1,470 Charlcombe 7.04 350 350 Chelwood 5.74 21,500 21,500 Chew Magna 36.04 15,000 15,000 Chew Stoke 32.75 3,000 2,970 Claverton 42.56 38,095 30,639 Clutton 56.05 8,500 8,500 Combe Hay 91.25 7,011 7,011 Compton Dando 24.63 8,960 8,960 Compton Martin 36.17 6,900 6,900 Corston 36.23 6,860 6,997 Dunkerton 31.08 9,150 9,150 East Harptree 30.26 5,651 5,994 Englishcombe 46.44 13,160 13,880 Farmborough 32.37 10,260 10,260 Farrington Gurney 31.89 17,920 17,920 Freshford 63.33 24,000 25,500 High Littleton 32.39 6,209 7,985 Hinton Blewett 57.81 12,432 12,432 Hinton Charterhouse 52.35 1,560 1,560 Kelston 18.44 423,953 423,953 Keynsham 78.86 5,120 5,320 Marksbury 29.23 308,583 318,172 Midsomer Norton 86.16 4,890 5,935 Monkton Combe 34.00 1,000 1,600 Nempnett Thrubwell 17.15

Do you need some information about a Council-run service? Help is at hand with this useful guide...To be put through to someone who can help, call the Council

switchboard on 01225 477000 or visit www.bathnes.gov.uk

for further information

Services Directory

n Adoption and Fostering Placements, recruitment of adopters and support services. The team also provides counselling for adopted adults and support in accessing birth records. W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/adoption T: 01225 394949Google Search: Bathnes Fostering

n Benefits: Housing and Council Tax Support Visit a One Stop Shop in Bath, Keynsham or Midsomer Norton, or alternatively, contact a Benefits Officer by phone or email. W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/benefits T: 01225 477777 Google Search: Bathnes Benefits

n Birth Registration Register a birth, which occurred in the district, at the Guildhall, High Street, Bath BA1 5AW or The Hollies, High Street, Midsomer Norton, BA3 2DT. W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/births T: 01225 477234 Google Search: Bathnes Births

n Building Control Contact Building Control for help and advice about the

building regulation process and any proposed building projects you have. W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/buildingcontrol T: 01225 477517 Google Search: Bathnes Building Control

n Cemeteries and Crematoriums Find out about Council-administered cemeteries when organising a funeral. W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/cemeteries T: 01225 396020 Google Search: Bathnes Cemeteries

n Children’s Centre Information ServiceThe Service holds up-to-date information about all Ofsted-registered childcare, as well as information about working with children and family support. W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/fis T: 01225 395343Google Search:Bathnes Fis

n Community Meals Service This service provides hot meals to those who have difficulty cooking for themselves. W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/mealsonwheels T: 01225 394350 Google Search: Bathnes Community Meals

Aa

Bb

n Council Tax Enquiries For account queries about your Council Tax bill, ranging from online payments to exemptions. W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/counciltax T: 01225 477777 Google Search:Bathnes Council Tax

n Curo Curo is the largest provider of affordable housing in the area and offers a range of high-quality care and support services. Contact us using the details below. W: www.curo-group.co.uk T: 01225 366000 T: 01225 366111 (repairs) T: 0300 123 2468 (anti-social behaviour)

E: [email protected] (enquiries)E: [email protected] (repairs)

CcCouncil Connect

18 19

n Bus Passes

n Dog WarDen service

n Fly TiPPing

n garDen WasTe

n grass cuTTing

n graFFiTi removal

n griTTing oF roaDs (excePT moTorWays)

n liBraries

n Parks anD oPen sPaces

n PavemenTs anD roaD mainTenance

n Planning enquiries

n PuBlic ToileTs

n PuBlic TransPorT

n recycling anD WasTe

n roaD FaulTs anD PoTholes

n roaD saFeTy

n sTreeT lighTing

For all of the above services, contact Council Connect:

Twitter: @ccbathnesTelephone: 01225 394041

Email: [email protected]: 07797 806545

Monday to Friday 08.00 to 18.00 (except Wednesdays 09.30 to 18.00).Closed Saturdays, Sundays and Bank Holidays. At other times, for emergencies or dangerous incidents only, please phone 01225 477477.

www.bathnes.gov.uk www.bathnes.gov.ukwww.bathnes.gov.uk

n Death Registration Register a death, which has occurred in our district, at the Guildhall, High Street, Bath BA1 5AW or at The Hollies High Street, Midsomer Norton, BA3 2DP. W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/deaths T: 01225 477234 Google Search: Bathnes Deaths

n Disabled Car Users (Blue Badges)The UK-wide Blue Badge scheme provides parking concessions for people with severe mobility problems. W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/bluebadges T: 01225 477133 or 01225 477134 Google Search: Bathnes Blue Badges

n Discovery Card Discovery Card holders receive discounts or free entry for numerous attractions in the area. W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/discoverycard T: 01225 477737 Google Search: Bathnes Discovery Card

n Electoral Registration and Elections

For queries on voting rights or other election matters. W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/elections T: 01225 477333 Google Search: Bathnes Electoral Registration

n Family Information Service

The Service holds up-to-date information about all Ofsted-registered childcare, as well as information about working with children and family support. W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/fis T: 01225 395343 Google Search: Bathnes Fis

21www.bathnes.gov.uk www.bathnes.gov.uk20

n Fire Service, Avon Get updates on the latest news and incidents in your area and view the work we do within the community. W: www.avonfire.gov.uk T: 0117 9262061 (non-emergency)

n Housing Services Support and advice for all of your housing issues. W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/housing T: 01225 396296 Google Search: Bathnes Housing

n Jobs with the Council Up-to-date information about job vacancies, equal opportunities, employment and training initiatives. W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/jobs T: 01225 396409 (24 hours) Google Search: Bathnes Jobs

n Leisure Centres Bath Leisure Centre, North Parade Rd, Bath BA2 4ET W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/leisure T: 01225 486905 Google Search: Bathnes Leisure and Sport Culverhay Sports Centre, Rush Hill, Bath BA2 2QL T: 01225 486902 (office hours)T: 01225 480882 (after 5pm)Keynsham Leisure Centre, Temple Street, Keynsham BS31 1HE T: 01225 395164 South Wansdyke Sports Centre, Rackvernal Rd, Midsomer Norton BA3 2UG T: 01761 415522

n Licensing Offers a range of information regarding licensing, including alcohol, cinemas and taxis. W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/licensing T: 01225 477531 Google Search: Bathnes Licensing

n MOT Testing We offer vehicle MOTs to members of the public and trade for cars, taxis and some coaches. Book today! W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/bath_mot T: 01225 477314 Google Search: Bathnes MOT Testing

n Museums and Art Galleries Assembly Rooms and Fashion Museum W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/museums T: 01225 477789 Google Search: Bathnes MuseumsRoman Baths and Pump RoomT: 01225 477785 Victoria Art Gallery (closed Mondays)T: 01225 477233Bath’s Historic Buildings (venue hire)T: 01225 477786 or 01225 477782

n NHS Service, BANES Find out how to register with your local GP or NHS dentist, plus information on other key services. W: www.bathandnortheastsomersetccg.nhs.uk T: 01225 831800 E: [email protected]

n Parking Services For parking queries, Park & Ride, clamping, fines, permits, Blue Badges, Pay & Display, enforcement of restrictions. Visit the website to download maps. W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/parking T: 01225 477133 Google Search: Bathnes Parking

n Pest Control The Council offers a comprehensive pest-control service for residents and businesses. W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/pests T: 01225 396007 Google Search: Bathnes Pests

n Police Service, Avon and Somerset

Stay informed about what is happening in your area, with regular news updates, as well as useful information about crime reduction. W: www.avonandsomerset.police.uk T: 101 (non-emergencies)

n Record Office The office holds a wealth of information and archives. W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/records T: 01225 477421 (closed Mondays) Google Search: Bathnes Records

n School Admissions We deal with applications and can advise about your right of appeal, as well as home-to-school transport. W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/admissions T: 01225 394312 Google Search: Bathnes Schools

n Sirona Care & Health Providing community health and adult social services in Bath and North East Somerset. For detailed information on the services we offer, as well as online contact forms, visit our website. W: www.sirona-cic.org.uk T: 01225 831400

n Social Services Visit the Health and Social Care pages on the website for information and advice. W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/adultcare T: 01225 477000 T: 01454 615165 (out of hours emergencies about adults or children)

T: 0808 800 4444 (emergency housing advice, contact the Shelter England 24-hour freephone advice line) Google Search: Bathnes Social Services

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n Travel Information (Traveline) Traveline provides timetables and journey planners for bus, coach and rail services in the South West. W: www.travelinesw.com T: 0871 200 2233 (7am to 10pm - Calls cost 10p per minute from landlines) Google Search: Southwest Traveline

n Youth Connect Working with young people aged 11-25 years.

W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/youthconnect T: 01225 396980 E: [email protected] Google Search: Bathnes Youth Connect

How to make the most – Pay the Council…

The Council’s ‘pay for it’ online service is a speedy, simple and secure way to pay for bills and charges, and it is available 24 hours a day. In just a few simple steps, you can make payments for Council Tax, Penalty Notices, Business Rates, Commercial Rents, Garden Waste renewal fees, and many other services. You will need your account number or invoice reference in order to make a payment. Once you have this, visit the website at www.bathnes.gov.uk/pay, click on the online payments link and follow the on-screen prompts.

If you don’t have access to the internet, you can also pay by phone, or by visiting one of our local offices: Call 0845 372 3501 (24 hours a day) Visit a One Stop Shop in Bath, Keynsham or Midsomer Norton.

22 www.bathnes.gov.uk

n Taxi and Private Hire Cars – Complaints If you have a complaint regarding any licensed vehicle, contact the Council Licensing Enforcement Officer. W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/taxis T: 01225 477689 Google Search: Bathnes Taxi Complaints

n Trading Standards The Council is responsible for enforcing a range of consumer legislation including misleading advertisements and counterfeit trademarks. W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/trading T: 01225 396753 Google Search: Bathnes Trading

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Yy

n Bus Passesn Dog Warden Service n Fly Tippingn Garden Wasten Grass Cuttingn Graffiti Removaln Gritting of Roads

(except motorways)n Librariesn Parks and Open Spacesn Pavements and Road

Maintenancen Planning Enquiriesn Public Toiletsn Public Transportn Recycling and Wasten Road Faults and Potholesn Road Safetyn Street Lighting

Council Connect

For all of the above services, contact Council Connect:

Twitter: @ccbathnesTelephone: 01225 394041 Email: councilconnect@ bathnes.gov.ukText: 07797 806545Monday to Friday 08.00 to 18.00 (except Wednesdays 09.30 to 18.00). Closed Saturdays, Sundays and Bank Holidays. At other times, for emergencies or dangerous incidents only, please phone 01225 477477.

34 | Connect | Spring 2015

n Housing Services Support and advice for all of your housing issues. W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/housing T: 01225 396296 Google Search: Bathnes Housing

n Jobs with the Council Up-to-date information about job vacancies, equal opportunities, employment and training initiatives. W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/jobs T: 01225 396409 (24 hours) Google Search: Bathnes Jobs

n Leisure Centres Bath Leisure Centre, North Parade Rd, Bath BA2 4ET W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/leisure T: 01225 486905 Google Search: Bathnes Leisure and Sport

Culverhay Sports Centre, Rush Hill, Bath BA2 2QL T: 01225 486902 (office hours) T: 01225 480882 (after 5pm)

Keynsham Leisure Centre, Temple Street, Keynsham BS31 1HE T: 01225 395164

South Wansdyke Sports Centre, Rackvernal Rd, Midsomer Norton BA3 2UG T: 01761 415522 n Licensing Offers a range of information regarding licensing, including alcohol, cinemas and taxis. W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/licensing T: 01225 477531 Google Search: Bathnes Licensing

n MOT Testing We offer vehicle MOTs to members of the public and trade for cars, taxis and some coaches. Book today! W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/bath_mot T: 01225 477314 Google Search: Bathnes MOT Testing n Museums and Art Galleries Assembly Rooms and Fashion Museum W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/museums T: 01225 477789 Google Search: Bathnes MuseumsRoman Baths and Pump Room T: 01225 477785Victoria Art Gallery (closed Mondays) T: 01225 477233Bath’s Historic Buildings (venue hire) T: 01225 477786 or 01225 477782

n NHS Service, BANES Find out how to register with your local GP or NHS dentist, plus information on other key services. W: www.bathandnortheastsomersetccg.nhs.uk T: 01225 831800 E: [email protected]

n Parking Services For parking queries, Park & Ride, clamping, fines, permits, Blue Badges, Pay & Display, enforcement of restrictions. Visit the website to download maps. W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/parking T: 01225 477133 Google Search: Bathnes Parking

n Pest Control The Council offers a comprehensive pest-control service for residents and businesses. W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/pests T: 01225 396007 Google Search: Bathnes Pests n Police Service, Avon and Somerset Stay informed about what is happening in your area, with regular news updates, as well as useful information about crime reduction. W: www.avonandsomerset.police.uk T: 101 (non-emergencies)

n Record Office The office holds a wealth of information and archives. W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/records T: 01225 477421 (closed Mondays) Google Search: Bathnes Records

n School Admissions We deal with applications and can advise about your right of appeal, as well as home-to-school transport. W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/admissions T: 01225 394312 Google Search: Bathnes Schools n Sirona Care & Health Providing community health and adult social services in Bath and North East Somerset. For detailed information on the services we offer, as well as online contact forms, visit our website. W: www.sirona-cic.org.uk T: 01225 831400 n Social Services Visit the Health and Social Care pages on the website for information and advice. W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/adultcare T: 01225 477000 T: 01454 615165 (out of hours emergencies about adults or children) T: 0808 800 4444 (emergency housing advice, contact the Shelter England 24-hour freephone advice line) Google Search: Bathnes Social Services

n Taxi and Private Hire Cars – Complaints If you have a complaint regarding any licensed vehicle, contact the Council Licensing Enforcement Officer. W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/taxis T: 01225 477689 Google Search: Bathnes Taxi Complaints

n Trading Standards The Council is responsible for enforcing a range of consumer legislation including misleading advertisements and counterfeit trademarks. W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/trading T: 01225 396753 Google Search: Bathnes Trading n Travel Information (Traveline) Traveline provides timetables and journey planners for bus, coach and rail services in the South West. W: www.travelinesw.com T: 0871 200 2233 (7am to 10pm - Calls cost 10p per minute from landlines) Google Search: Southwest Traveline

n Youth Connect Working with young people aged 11-25 years. W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/youthconnect T: 01225 396980E: [email protected] Google Search: Bathnes Youth Connect

n Adoption and Fostering Placements, recruitment of adopters and support services. The team also provides counselling for adopted adults and support in accessing birth records. W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/adoption T: 01225 394949 Google Search: Bathnes Fostering

n Benefits: Housing and Council Tax Support Visit a One Stop Shop in Bath, Keynsham or Midsomer Norton, or alternatively, contact a Benefits Officer by phone or email. W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/benefits T: 01225 477777 Google Search: Bathnes Benefits n Birth Registration Register a birth, which occurred in the district, at the Guildhall, High Street, Bath BA1 5AW or The Hollies, High Street, Midsomer Norton, BA3 2DT. W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/births T: 01225 477234 Google Search: Bathnes Births n Building Control Contact Building Control for help and advice about the building regulation process and any proposed building projects you have. W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/buildingcontrol T: 01225 477517 Google Search: Bathnes Building Control

n Cemeteries and Crematoriums Find out about Council-administered cemeteries when organising a funeral. W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/cemeteries T: 01225 396020 Google Search: Bathnes Cemeteries

n Children’s Centre Information Service The Service holds up-to-date information about all Ofsted-registered childcare, as well as information about working with children and family support. W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/fis T: 01225 395343 Google Search: Bathnes Fis n Community Meals Service This service provides hot meals to those who have difficulty cooking for themselves.

W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/mealsonwheels T: 01225 394350 Google Search: Bathnes Community Meals n Council Tax Enquiries For account queries about your Council Tax bill, ranging from online payments to exemptions. W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/counciltax T: 01225 477777 Google Search: Bathnes Council Tax n Curo Curo is the largest provider of affordable housing in the area and offers a range of high-quality care and support services. Contact us using the details below. W: www.curo-group.co.uk T: 01225 366000 T: 01225 366111 (repairs) T: 0300 123 2468 (anti-social behaviour) E: [email protected] (enquiries) E: [email protected] (repairs)

n Death Registration Register a death, which has occurred in our district, at the Guildhall, High Street, Bath BA1 5AW or at The Hollies High Street, Midsomer Norton, BA3 2DP. W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/deaths T: 01225 477234 Google Search: Bathnes Deaths n Disabled Car Users (Blue Badges) The UK-wide Blue Badge scheme provides parking concessions for people with severe mobility problems. W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/bluebadges T: 01225 477133 or 01225 477134 Google Search: Bathnes Blue Badges n Discovery Card Discovery Card holders receive discounts or free entry for numerous attractions in the area. W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/discoverycard T: 01225 477737 Google Search: Bathnes Discovery Card

n Electoral Registration and Elections For queries on voting rights or other election matters. W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/elections T: 01225 477333 Google Search: Bathnes Electoral Registration

n Family Information Service The Service holds up-to-date information about all Ofsted-registered childcare, as well as information about working with children and family support. W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/fis T: 01225 395343 Google Search: Bathnes Fis n Fire Service, Avon Get updates on the latest news and incidents in your area and view the work we do within the community. W: www.avonfire.gov.uk T: 0117 9262061 (non-emergency)

www.bathnes.gov.uk | 35

Directory

Services DirectoryDo you need some information about a Council-run service? Help is at hand with this useful guide...

To be put through to someone who can help, call the Council switchboard on 01225 477000 or visit www.bathnes.gov.uk for further information

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15% DISCOUNT

for students and Take-Away’s on

Collection

Enjoy superb Bangladeshi/Indian food at a very reasonable priceFree home delivery for orders over £12 (3 miles radius) 6-11pm

Open: 5.30pm - 1.30am Fri & Sat until 2am Sun 5.30pm - 12.30am. Closed Mondays.4a Argyle Street, Bath BA2 4BA | Tel: 01225 462323 or 01225 442955 | www.premiercurry.com

How to...Make the most Pay the Council…

The Council’s ‘pay for it’ online service is a speedy,

simple and secure way to pay for bills and charges, and it is available 24 hours a day. In just a few simple steps, you can make payments for Council Tax, Penalty Notices, Business Rates, Commercial Rents, Garden Waste renewal fees, and many other services.

You will need your account number or invoice reference in order to make a payment. Once you have this, visit the website at www.bathnes.gov.uk/pay, click on the online payments link and follow the on-screen prompts.

If you don’t have access to the internet, you can also pay by phone, or by visiting one of our local offices:

Call 0845 372 3501 (24 hours a day)

Visit the One Stop Shop in Bath, Riverside in Keynsham or The Hollies in Midsomer Norton.

Shown not to scale

WHAT IS A DISCOVERY CARD?The Resident’s Discovery Card enables local residents to visit your Council-run museums free of charge.

In Bath & North East Somerset we are fortunate to have two world famous museums on our doorstep. For the benefit of everyone, the Council runs the Roman Baths and Fashion Museum in Bath, together with an exceptionally fine art collection at the Victoria Art Gallery.

The Council’s Heritage Services runs a full programme of adult, children’s and family activities throughout the year, culminating in Heritage Open Week during the autumn half-term.

In Heritage Open Week, dozens of independent organisations join us in providing a programme of heritage-based activities for all ages, most of which are free.

Telephone: 01225 477785 24 hour information: 01225 [email protected]

24 25

ENVIRONMENT AGENCY SOUTH WEST REGIONThe Council Tax (Demand Notices) (England) Regulations 2011.

The Environment Agency is a levying body for its Flood and Coastal Erosion Risk Management Functions under the Flood and Water Management Act 2010 and the Environment Agency (Levies) (England and Wales) Regulations 2011.The Environment Agency has powers in respect of flood and coastal erosion risk management for 2813 kilometres of main river and along tidal and sea defences in the area of the Wessex Regional Flood and Coastal Committee. Money is spent on the construction of new flood defence schemes, the maintenance of the river system and existing flood defences together with the operation of a flood warning system and management of the risk of coastal erosion. The financial details are:

Wessex Regional Flood and Coastal Committee

2014/2015 2015/2016 ‘000s ‘000s

Gross Expenditure £36,222 £33,771

Levies Raised £3,325 £3,392

Total Council Tax Base 946 961

The majority of funding for flood defence comes directly from the Department for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra). However, under the new Partnership Funding rule not all schemes will attract full central funding. To provide ‘matching’ funding the Agency may seek funding from County and Metropolitan Councils, Unitary Authorities and London Boroughs in the form of a Local Levy. The Local Levy is shared on the basis of Band D Equivalents between all contributing bodies within the Committee Area.

Changes in the Gross Budgeted expenditure between the years both reflects the impact of the Government Spending Review and national prioritisation of projects. For 15/16 we have included Grant Aided Expenditure on all Risk Management Authority Programs. The total Local Levy raised has increased by 2%.

The total Local Levy raised has increased from £3,325,000 in 2014/2015 to £3,391,857 for 2015/2016.

SCHEDULE WATER RESOURCES ACT 1991, SECTION 141 FORM OF STATEMENT REGIONAL FLOOD AND COASTAL COMMITTEE PRECEPT AND LEVY FOR THE YEAR COMMENCING 1ST APRIL 2015

PART I Statement of purposes to which the amount demanded by Levy is intended to be

Purpose Total Government Defrayed from any Relevant Expenditure Grants reserve, replacement Expenditure (Col or sinking fund 2 less Cols 3 & 4)

‘000s ‘000s ‘000s ‘000s

(1) (2) (3) (4) (5)

1.Expenses under enactments relating to land drainage:

(1) Capital expenditure from revenue

(a) Grant-aided works £16,800 £0 £0 £16,800

(b) Non grant-aided items £4,625 £0 £0 £4,625

(2) Other expenditure

(a) Payments in respect of £0 £0 £0 £0 works financed by borrowing, under section 48 of the Environment Act 1995 (including loan charges)

(b) Maintenance Works £12,346 £0 £0 £12,346

(c) Administration £0 £0 £0 £0

Expenses (including proportion of Environment Agency and Regional Flood Defence Committee expenses)

(d) Contributions to Internal £0 £0 £0 £0

Drainage Boards

(e) Debit transfer to other £0 £0 £0 £0

Environment Agency accounts

(f)Other items £0 £0 £0 £0

2. Provision for working capital £0 £0 £0 £0

3. Debit balance brought forward £0 £0 £0 £0

Total Expenditure £33,771

www.environment-agency.gov.uk

www.bathnes.gov.uk www.bathnes.gov.ukwww.bathnes.gov.uk

26 27

PART II

1.

(a)Government Grant - in - Aid £27,947

(b)Contributions from Internal Drainage Boards (see part £553

(c)General Drainage Charges £0

(d)Sundry Receipts £0

2.Movement in balances. £1,879

3.Credit transfers from other Environment Agency accounts £0

4.Amount to be met by levies under the Environment Agency (Levies) (England and £3,392 Wales) Regulations 2011 (SI 2011 No 696)

Total Income £33,771

Part III

Statement of the amounts demanded by precept from Amount of precept from Internal Drainage Boards (ii) each Board

Axe Brue £249,807

North Somerset Levels £99,962

Parrett £203,018

Total amount of precept £552,787

PART IV

Statement showing the basis on which the amounts Council tax base Amount of demanded by levies to the individual councils for relevant area (iii) Levy (iv) are calculated.

(1) County Council

Dorset County Council 160,520 £566,295

Gloucestershire County Council 8,597 £30,330

Hampshire County Council 11,652 £41,106

Somerset County Council 177,354 £625,683

(4) Unitary Authority

Bath & North East Somerset Council 61,951 £218,553

Bournemouth Borough Council 59,582 £210,197

Bristol City Council 114,401 £403,591

North Somerset Council 73,997 £261,051

Poole Borough Council 54,808 £193,355

South Gloucestershire Council 87,715 £309,447

Wiltshire Council 150,870 £532,249

Total 961,447 £3,391,857

NOTES

(i). “Grant in Aid” means grants made to the Environment Agency under section 47 Environment Act 1995.

“Precept” means precepts to internal drainage boards issued under section 141 Water Resources Act 1991.

(ii). Precept includes contribution by resolution under Section 58(2)(b) of the Land Drainage Act 1991.

(iii). The ‘’Council tax base’’ for an area, or part of an area, is to be that calculated in accordance with regulation 7 of the Environment Agency (levies) (England and Wales) Regulations 2011 (SI 2011 No 696).

(iv). Councils of Counties include district councils to which county functions have been transferred in accordance with Regulation 5(6) of the Local Government Changes for England Regulations 1994 (SI 1994/867) pursuant to structural change.

SCHEDULE WATER RESOURCES ACT 1991, SECTION 141 FORM OF STATEMENT REGIONAL FLOOD AND COASTAL COMMITTEE PRECEPT AND LEVY FOR THE YEAR COMMENCING 1ST APRIL 2015

29

HOW WE SPEND THE BUDGET 2015/16The chart below shows where the budget goes

YOUR AREA NOW HAS ITS OWN POLICE AND CRIME PLAN Bath & North East Somerset has its own Police & Crime Plan which sets out the local priorities for your area and tells you what the police are doing to keep you safe and to reduce crime.

Remember call 101 in a non-emergency and always dial 999 in emergency

To contact your PCC Sue Mountstevens call 01275 816377 email [email protected]

AandSPCC @AandSPCC visit www.avonandsomerset-pcc.gov.uk

Police Officers - £137.2m Police Staff - £56.3m Community Support Officers - £10.1m Running Expenses - £53.5m Police Pensions - £7.1m Capital Funding Costs - £4.1m Community Safety Fund - £3.3m

Office of the PCC - £1.4m

BUDGET 2015/16

It focuses specifically on requirements from our consultation with you, the council and other partners and shows that by working together we can make your streets and homes safer.

To read your area’s Police & Crime Plan visit www.avonandsomerset-pcc.gov.uk or pick up a copy in your local library or council building. WE ALL WANT TO LIVE IN A COMMUNITY THAT IS STRONG AND SAFE.

Consultation draft

Police and Crime Plan 2014-17

SUPPORTING YOU TO BE SAFE AND FEEL SAFE

28 www.bathnes.gov.uk

YOURP LICING POUNDS

www.avonandsomerset-pcc.gov.uk

Despite the financial challenges crime and risk of crime remains below average in Avon and Somerset and, in our area, public confidence in policing remains amongst the highest nationally. There is still much more work to do. Domestic and sexual violence, exploitation and hate crime remain significantly under-reported. In 2015/16 Sue Mountstevens will continue to focus on ensuring policing meets local needs, provides value for money and importantly supports you to be safe and feel safe.The spending plans for 2015/16 are shown below with comparative figures for 2014/15 and details of how the budget is financed:

CHANGES IN SPENDINGThe net expenditure for the Police will be £3m lower in 2015/16 compared to 2014/15 following a 5.1% reduction in central government funding. The PCC has taken the decision to increase the policing part of the council tax by £3.41 a year for the average band D household. This follows extensive consultation with over 3,000 residents. Although inflation and other unavoidable spending pressures will increase costs by £8m, savings have been agreed to balance the budget. This means that the average band D precept will be £174.78.

Spending Plans 2014/15 2015/16Gross expenditure £290m £287mSpecific grants and other income £14m £14mNet Budget requirement £276m £273m

Where does the money come from 2014/15 2015/16Funding from central government £186m £179mAmount paid by council tax £90m £94mTotal income £276m £273m

2015/16£273m

Total netbudget

2014/15£276m

Total netbudget

30

Where does each

pound

go?

Avon Fire & Rescue Service (AF&RS) protects the communities of Bath & North East Somerset, Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire.

This service costs the average Band D household £66.60 a year – or £1.28 a week.

Since 2010 our overall budget has been decreasing and in January 2014 we announced plans that will help us achieve £4.5million of annual savings.

The Investing for the Future programme is now well underway with the first project already completed.

This year the redeveloped Kingswood Fire Station in South Gloucestershire was re-opened. The station now

Your fire and rescue servicehas an increased capacity, providing a modern, efficient facility serving a wider community. As part of the changes Speedwell Fire Station was closed, however local people will still receive the same emergency response standards from the new station at nearby Kingswood.

Work is also underway to build new fire stations at Hicks Gate near Keynsham and at Temple Back in Bristol. These projects will allow the rationalisation of our premises, providing long term financial savings.

Despite the changes, we have made a commitment that our emergency response standards will remain unchanged in areas affected. You can read more about the plans at www.avonfire.gov.uk/investing-for-the-future.

If you would like fire safety advice about your home, or the home of a loved one, find out how we can help. Please call us on 0117 926 2061 or visit our website at www.avonfire.gov.uk

Employees(including

pension costs) 73.9p

Premises4.5p

Transport 3.9p

Supplies and services 9.7p

Other 0.3pInvesting for the Future programme 2.3p

Capital financing 5.5p

31

Main changes in net expenditure (£m)2014/15 Budget 44.332

Inflationary pressures 0.760

Other -1.617

Use of reserves 2.100

Savings -2.323

2015/16 Budget 43.252

The main changes in spending from 2014/15 to 2015/16 are shown below:

The capital programme for 2015/16, excluding any capital expenditure within the 2014/15 capital programme that may be delayed or slipped into 2015/16, is shown to the right:

2014/15 (£m)

2015/16 (£m)

Premises 0.500 0.500

Investing for the Future programme

2.420 8.170

Vehicles and equipment 1.580 1.500IT and communications 0.200 0.200Total 4.700 10.370

For further information please contact: Avon Fire & Rescue Service,A: Temple Back, Bristol, BS1 6EU T: 0117 926 2061 W: www.avonfire.gov.uk

This year savings totalling around £2.3 million have been identified in the following areas:

Savings 2015/16 (£m)Employees -1.638

Running costs:

Premises -0.060

Transport -0.050

Supplies and services -0.010

Other -0.565

Total -2.323

Capital requirements

Savings

Spending plans

Annual budgetAvon Fire Authority has set its net budget for 2015/16 at £43.252 million(m). This represents a Council Tax level of £66.60 a year for a Band D property, an increase of just below 2%.

The Government’s funding assessment for Avon Fire Authority has been reduced to £20.062m for 2015/16, a reduction of £1.994m (9.04%). The impact of this is that the funding provided by Central Government has been reduced by £2.082m (11.9%).

2014/15 (£m)

2015/16(£m)

Total fire expenditure 48.689 45.556

Income -1.857 -1.904

Net budget before use of reserves

46.832 43.652

Use of reserves -2.500 -0.400

Net budget 44.332 43.252

Funding: Central Government

Revenue Support Grant 12.342 10.162

Business rate - Top-up 5.160 5.258

Local funding Locally retained business rates

4.541 4.660

Collection fund surplus 0.420 0.343

Council tax 21.869 22.829

Total 44.332 43.252

Could you foster a young person from the Bath and North East Somerset area? We are looking for people with child care experience and the time and energy to care for young people aged 11 and over.

Carers receive an excellent support and training package, as well as a competitive allowance – those caring for older teenagers are likely to receive up to £400 per week.

“Becoming a foster carer has been a huge challenge but is immensely rewarding and satisfying in ways that I hadn’t anticipated.”

To find out more, call The Family Placement Team on 01225 394949 or email [email protected] www.bathnes.gov.uk

Are we looking for you? Local families for local children