East Cowes Town Council has confirmed that there will be no increase in the town precept for 2026/27 — with residents instead seeing a small reduction.
Following its annual public consultation in October 2025, the Council formally agreed its budget for 2026/27 at the Council meeting held on 22nd January 2026.
Despite delivering several major capital projects over the past year, the Council has been able to protect residents from rising costs through careful financial management.
Significant investment has included the rebuild of the skatepark, the refurbishment of the Esplanade public toilets, and the resurfacing of all paths at the Jubilee Recreation Ground.
By maintaining tight budget controls and maximising income, including increased use of the Town Hall, the Council has balanced ambition with affordability.
At the January meeting, Members resolved not only to freeze the precept but to reduce it slightly. For the financial year 2026/27, the precept will be £430,312.00, down from £430,457.00 in 2025/26.
Mayor of East Cowes, Cllr Tracy Reardon, said:
“We are committed to ensuring that East Cowes continues to thrive while delivering the services and facilities our community values. At the same time, we are determined to keep costs down and avoid placing unnecessary financial pressure on our residents. This small reduction reflects our commitment to responsible financial stewardship.
Article continues below this advertisement “East Cowes Town Council will continue to invest in local facilities and community wellbeing while working hard to ensure best value for money for local taxpayers”.
But ill expect 6% council tax make up for it…….
The whole Island should have a precept reduction seeing as all the flooding is causing it to resemble bleeding Venice!
That is very true, only a matter of time before more
cliff falls, the island is getting smaller every year,
but the bills are getting bigger.
Well done East Cowes town council every reduction no matter how small is welcome it shows it can be done
Well done to East Cowes, shame other towns are
greedy B’stards.