Wigan Council has approved its budget for 2025/26, bringing good news for residents and businesses alike. The lowest council tax rates in Greater Manchester will remain in place, with no cuts to frontline services, alongside continued investment in apprenticeships, infrastructure, and community projects.
Keeping Costs Low for Residents
Despite financial pressures, Wigan Council has once again delivered a balanced budget, with council tax rising by just 2.99%, plus a 2% increase for adult social care – in line with national recommendations. Even with this, Wigan still boasts the lowest tax rate across Greater Manchester and remains one of the best-performing councils in the country.
Investing in Roads, Housing, and Regeneration
The budget will fund pothole repairs, affordable housing schemes, and community projects. An additional £1m will be spent on highways repairs, thanks to match-funding from the Greater Manchester Combined Authority.
Regeneration remains a key focus, with investment in Haigh Woodland Park, The Galleries, and town centres in Leigh and Ashton. The Cotton Works and Civic Centre will also see further development, strengthening Wigan’s growth and appeal.
Extending Support for Jobs & Local Businesses
A major highlight is the extension of the Future Apprentices for Business (FAB) programme for another 12 months. Since launching in 2023, this initiative has created over 80 job opportunities for young residents aged 16 to 24, helping local businesses grow.
To support town centre businesses, free weekend parking at council-owned sites in Wigan and Leigh has also been extended for another year.
A Budget That Puts People First
Leader of Wigan Council, Cllr David Molyneux MBE, praised the budget, saying:
“Despite the challenging circumstances we have had to face over the last 14 years, we continue to be one of the top-performing councils. I’m confident that 2025/26 will be another successful year for the borough, and this balanced, no-cuts budget will be a blueprint for continued growth.”
A Vision for the Future
Wigan Council’s Progress With Unity plan continues to shape its long-term vision for the borough. Launched last year, this strategy aims to:
✅ Create fair opportunities for children, families, residents, and businesses
✅ Make all towns and neighbourhoods flourish for those who live and work in them
With strong financial planning, smart investments, and a commitment to keeping costs low, the 2025/26 budget is set to benefit residents, businesses, and communities across Wigan.
What do you think of the council’s budget plans? Let us know in the comments!
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