A proposed council tax rise of up to 14.99% has sparked outrage across Bradford, with opposition councillors and residents condemning the move as a “direct attack on the city’s most vulnerable.” A Facebook page titled ‘Protest Against Susan Hinchcliffe Failures And Council Tax Rise’ is gaining traction, with hundreds expressing interest in attending a demonstration against the Labour-led council’s plans.
The proposal, announced last week, has sent shockwaves through the district. If approved by the Government, the tax hike would see residents paying significantly more – a burden many argue they simply cannot afford amid the cost-of-living crisis.
Bradford’s Independent Group Councillors have vowed to stand with protesters, denouncing the proposed increase as “unjustifiable” in a city already grappling with some of the highest poverty levels in the country. In a strongly worded statement, they accused the Labour administration of failing its residents:
“For years, Bradford’s residents have faced rising energy bills, higher grocery prices, and stagnant wages. To add another 15% increase in council tax is not only extreme, but also a direct attack on their financial well-being.”
The statement further highlighted the devastating impact on struggling families:
- 1 in 3 children in Bradford lives in poverty
- More families rely on food banks than ever before
- Increased risk of rent arrears, evictions, and homelessness
- Greater pressure on already overstretched mental health services
Adding to the fury, the group accused the Labour Party of betrayal, pointing to Sir Keir Starmer’s broken election promise to freeze council tax increases. “The people of Bradford were misled,” the statement read, calling the move a “disgraceful U-turn” that has deepened public distrust in politicians.
Council Leader Susan Hinchcliffe has written to the Government requesting permission for a one-off tax rise, with options ranging from 9.99% to 14.99%. The Council expects to receive a decision by mid-February.
At a Council meeting last week, Hinchcliffe defended the proposal, arguing that without the increase, the Council would struggle to pay off debts, leading to higher interest payments and deeper cuts in future years.
“This decision was not taken lightly. We know people are struggling, and we are working on a scheme to support those on the lowest incomes,” she said.
However, critics were quick to push back. Conservative leader Cllr Rebecca Poulsen said the news came as a “shock”, not just to residents but to councillors themselves, as it was not included in the initial budget proposals.
“Many people are wondering how they are going to afford this level of increase,” she added, pointing out that in some areas, including Keighley, residents face additional tax hikes from town and parish councils.
Green Party Leader Cllr Matt Edwards also questioned the timing of such a dramatic increase, especially in a city where poverty is a defining issue.
“It is understandable that Bradford has one of the lowest council tax rates in West Yorkshire, but there is good reason to keep it that way. How can the leader justify making such a massive increase when so many people are struggling?” he asked.
As frustration grows, momentum for the protest is building, with campaigners demanding greater transparency and accountability from the Council.
The protest, which is being organised via Facebook Account Save our City, is expected to draw a large turnout, with residents determined to send a clear message: they will not accept what they see as a failure of leadership and a betrayal of working-class communities.
With just weeks until the Government’s decision, tensions in Bradford continue to rise—along with the fear that many residents may be pushed even further into financial hardship.
