Surrey County Council approved a 4.99% increase in council tax for the 2026/27 financial year at its budget meeting on 3–4 February 2026. The rise will increase household bills across Surrey, including in Camberley (Surrey Heath).
Surrey County Council said the additional revenue is needed to fill a funding gap driven by growing demand for adult social care and higher costs across services, and to protect essential services such as fire safety and support for elderly residents.
The 4.99% rise is the maximum increase allowed by the government for 2026/27 without triggering a local referendum. It is made up of a 2.99% increase for core council services and a 2% precept ring-fenced for Adult Social Care.
BBC analysis has reported a shortfall of about £151.7 million by 2026/27; the tax increase is one element of the council’s plan to help close that gap and keep services running.
For a Band D property in Surrey Heath (Camberley), the total annual council tax bill — which includes the county precept plus Surrey Heath Borough, the Surrey Police & Crime Commissioner and any parish precepts — is estimated to rise toward £2,350. The exact amount will vary depending on the borough, police and parish precepts applied locally.
The new rates take effect from 1 April 2026. The council has also set out efficiency and savings measures alongside the rise as part of its medium-term financial strategy.
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