Members of Neath Port Talbot's coalition council are preparing to deliver their final budget for 2023-24 next week, describing the process as a "huge challenge" given the current financial crisis.
With proposals that include an increase in council tax of 4.5% and a number of other cost saving measures such as closing five council-run buildings, members of the coalition believe they have delivered one of the strongest budgets in Wales, focused on protecting vital services and safeguarding hundreds of jobs.
The current proposals, which would see the 4.5% increase in council tax, mean residents living in band A to C homes, the vast majority in Neath Port Talbot, would pay between 96p and £1.28 extra each week for essential services.
