Hastings Borough Council could increase service fees by 10%

Council fees and charges could be increased, except where charges are on a statutory basis

A council has proposed a 10% increase to fees and charges for some of its services in 2024-25.

Hastings Borough Council will discuss the possible hike amid rising costs to deliver services due to inflation.

Price rises include car parking charges, cemetery and crematorium fees as well as garden waste collections.

The council stated current estimates suggest £4m savings are required to cover the council's budget deficit in 2024/25.

Some changes include an increase to the cost of tickets on the East and West Hill Cliff Railways by up to 42.9% to help pay for repairs and maintenance to the lifts.

The visitor attraction reopened in October following a refurbishment.

Last week, the authority said it could no longer afford to put up Christmas trees due to its financial situation.

The council has previously spoken of the possibility of bankruptcy amid rising homelessness in the East Sussex town.

Cllr Paul Barnett, leader of the council and lead for finance, said: "We know that lots of our residents continue to feel the impact of cost of living increases and the council is also feeling these pressures.

He added: "Unfortunately in our financial situation we are unable to absorb most increased costs to provide services and must pass these on. We are though trying to minimise the increases that affect the most vulnerable in our town."

The issue will be discussed at a cabinet meeting on 4 December.

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