Most top-tier English councils to raise council tax by maximum permitted

Three councils have been given special dispensation to increase bills beyond 4.99%. Croydon’s bill will go up by 15%, while Thurrock and Slough will each raise bills by 10%. Photograph: David Rogers/Getty Images

The majority of English top-tier councils are planning to raise council tax by the maximum permitted, with the bill for average properties to increase from April by about £100 a year, according to a survey.

Despite widespread concerns over the cost of living crisis, about 75% of the largest authorities have opted so far for the full 4.99% rise, with all but one of the remainder increasing council tax by at least 2%.