Annual Precept (2025-2026)

Keeping Our Parish Thriving: Why We’re Increasing the Precept  

As we plan for the future of our vibrant community, the Parish Council has set its precept (our portion of the Council Tax) at £632,716 for the 2025/26 financial year. For a Band D property, this means an increase of £22.27 per year—less than 50p per week.  

This increase ensures we can continue to support the many services and facilities you value, while also preparing for the uncertainties brought by the local government reorganisation in Hampshire. Here’s how your contribution will make a difference: 

✅ Investing in the Future:
We’ve developed a financial strategy to secure play provision, ensuring our parks and leisure facilities remain engaging and safe for children and families. 

✅ Sustainable Solutions:
Funding will go towards projects like solar PV and battery storage at community buildings, as well as important refurbishments—such as the library roof, Knowle Park pond and bridge, and pathway improvements at New Century Park. 

✅ Proactive Planning:
We’ve created a local government reorganisation budget (£32,000) to safeguard community assets in case of urgent transfers of land or assets from Eastleigh Borough Council. This ensures the Parish Council can protect our village open spaces and other assets from new ownership and ensure services remain within local control.  

🌳 Protecting What Matters Most 🌳
By making this adjustment to the precept, we’re safeguarding the future of our community—preserving the spaces and services we all cherish, while adapting to an ever-changing local government landscape. 

Thank you for your continued support in helping us keep our parish a wonderful place to live, work, and play. Together, we’re building a stronger future!  

Full details of the rationale behind the setting of the precept can be found via the following council report here.