Orkney Islands Council is pushing ahead with a 15% Council Tax increase to safeguard essential services.
Households in a Band D property will see their annual bill rise to £1,574.60, equating to an extra £3.95 per week.
This move aims to bring Orkney’s Council Tax closer to the national average while ensuring vital services remain intact.
The decision follows clear feedback from the public, gathered through the Council’s Budget Challenge survey.
The survey, conducted between December 2024 and January 2025, revealed strong support for tax increases to protect key services.
Almost half of respondents backed an increase of either 15% or 20%, while 40% preferred a smaller 10% rise.
Five proposed savings measures met significant opposition from the public.
These included charging for extra-curricular trips and placing requests at Papdale Halls of Residence.
Other unpopular proposals were closing Dounby recycling centre, stopping Saturday morning skip emptying at civic amenity sites, and ending free black bag distribution in the isles.
Elected members listened to the public and voted 11 to 10 in favour of a 15% tax rise.
This decision aligns with Orkney’s medium-term financial strategy and ensures the protection of valued services.
Councillor Heather Woodbridge, Leader of Orkney Islands Council, emphasised the importance of public input in shaping the budget.
She highlighted that the community had made it clear they valued local services and were willing to contribute more to sustain them.
The recommendation will now proceed to Full Council for final approval on 4 March.
