On Wednesday, 19 February, Royal Berkshire Fire Authority unanimously agreed Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service’s 2025/26 Budget and Band D Council Tax precept.
The council tax precept increase for 2025/26 is £5 more a year (based on a Band D household),which will be used to maintain the positive levels of service offered, while continuing to invest in equipment, fire stations and training.
The Fire Authority made this decision following a public consultation, which attracted over 400 responses. 75% of respondents were in support of RBFA raising council tax by £5 (for a band D household).
Councillor Jeff Brooks, Chair of Royal Berkshire Fire Authority, said:
“This is a budget that will further improve upon the already high standards delivered to the people of Berkshire by Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service (RBFRS). It is underpinned by a comprehensive investment programme in the Service’s dedicated staff, estate, training and equipment. For example, around £4 million is due to be invested in new fire engines in the coming years, and we will invest in IT systems that are modern and efficient.
“Even with this increase of £5, Royal Berkshire Fire Authority remains amongst the lowest 25% of precepting (council tax collection) fire authorities in the country. Therefore, Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service remains a low cost but high-quality Service – providing good value for money to our residents.
“This was a view backed up by our last inspection, when the Service was rated as a ‘good’ fire and rescue service from His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services, and we will receive our next assessment in the next few weeks.”
You can view the meeting of Royal Berkshire Fire Authority on 19 February on RBFRS’ YouTube channel.