A budget for an even better and greener Otley

Otley Town Council’s newly approved budget is a ‘budget for an even better and greener Otley’ according to Richard Hughes, the chair of the council. At the annual budget meeting, councillors unanimously agreed to the new spending which places an emphasis on projects to support the local economy, develop a more liveable town in line with the Neighbourhood Plan, whilst delivering on the council’s commitment to sustainability and the declaration of a climate emergency.

Significant money was found to support the Otley Street Vision 2030 project which, in consultation with residents, will produce a sensitively remodelled and sustainable town, well-placed for the challenges of the decades to come. The money will allow the support from Mobycon, the Dutch sustainable town consultancy, to continue its work and, it is hoped, to fund some early works. There was a smaller amount voted for the Wharfedale Greenway project which aims to provide safe cycling and walking between Otley and Pool, Menston and Burley. Gallows Hill nature reserve also benefitted and will continue to receive investment as a valuable outdoor space for the town.

The council also ensured that the ‘Investing in Otley’ scheme will continue to provide support for other projects which provide better facilities for Otley residents. Recent support for the refurbishment of the Otley Older People’s Welfare building is expected to be joined by other worthwhile bids for funding.

Whilst big ideas might grab the headlines, the council was also careful to ensure that there will remain sufficient funding for all the basic council services, for supporting local groups that need help and for ensuring that great Otley events are helped wherever appropriate.

To fund this ambitious budget for Otley, there is only a rise in the precept of £91.03 a year (7 pence per week) for each Band D household, as the council has focused on finding efficiencies wherever it can and holding budgets down in other areas. That focus will remain this year; councillors and officers will be looking at smarter working and better use of ICT, to increase responsiveness and the ability to do more with existing resources. 

Richard Hughes, chair of the council, added that ‘This is a critical year for Otley. With the neighbourhood plan and Street Vision 2030 setting out plans for the next decade, we are determined to fund development that will ensure that the town remains a great place to live and work in the face of the climate emergency and other challenges.’