An independent panel that annually reviews allowances paid to North Yorkshire councillors has proposed a rise linked to the rate of inflation.
The panel has proposed that the basic allowance for a member of North Yorkshire Council should be set at £18,431 for the next financial year in 2027/28.
Currently the basic allowance is £17,964. The panel has recommended the increase so that member allowances fall in line with the annual Consumer Prices Index (CPI) rate of inflation to June 2026, which is 2.6 per cent.
The chair of the Independent Remuneration Panel (IRP), Philip Battle, said: “The panel has again undertaken a thorough review of councillors’ allowances to ensure they remain fair, proportionate and reflective of the responsibilities and time commitment associated with the role of an elected member.
“In reaching our recommendations, we considered allowances paid by comparable local authorities alongside a range of factors, including inflation, wider economic pressures and the evolving demands placed on councillors in North Yorkshire.
“We recognise the significant contribution councillors make in representing their communities and providing democratic leadership across the county. Our view is that the recommended allowances strike an appropriate balance between recognising those responsibilities and ensuring value for money for residents.”
Members of our executive will consider the panel’s proposals on Tuesday, 27 October, before the recommendations go to the full council for a decision at its meeting on Wednesday, 18 November.
If approved, the proposed 2.6 per cent increase in the annual basic allowance will result in an increased annual cost of £23,604, taking the total cost to £1.64 million per annum.
The panel has recommended a 2.6 per cent increase in the special responsibility allowances (SRAs) paid to councillors who take on additional duties.
The proposed special responsibility allowances would see an overall increase of £12,455 meaning an overall total annual amount paid of £491,501.
Council leader, Cllr Carl Les, said: “I would like to thank the independent panel for carrying out this review and providing its recommendations.
“Being a councillor is a significant commitment, requiring members to balance their council duties with work, family life and other responsibilities. It is important that the allowances scheme remains fair, proportionate and supports people from a wide range of backgrounds to serve their communities.
“The panel’s recommendations will now be considered, and any agreed allowances remain a matter for individual councillors to decide whether they wish to claim.”
The report to the executive can be viewed or downloaded as a PDF here.