Reform UK councillors have criticised proposed council tax increases affecting residents across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole.
The group says the Liberal Democrat-led administration has approved a series of decisions without proper public consultation, including new town councils for Bournemouth, Poole and Broadstone, despite consultation feedback indicating limited public support for the move.
They have also raised concerns about changes for beach hut owners in Mudeford, where council tax has been increased, and proposals from Council Leader Millie Earl to introduce a tourist tax, which they say would place further pressure on the local economy.
Reform councillors argue the most significant issue is a planned 7.4 percent rise in council tax for all residents, which they describe as unprecedented and not subject to a public referendum.
They say higher charges have come alongside reduced services since 2023, pointing to cancelled community events, the closure of the council’s tourism department, the end of some Christmas light displays, and the closure of Kings Park Nursery, which led to job losses.
In a joint statement, Reform UK councillors said, “This madness must end,” and called on colleagues to reject what they described as excessive increases and work together to put residents first.
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