An independent review panel has proposed a 2.6% inflation-linked rise in allowances paid to elected members of North Yorkshire Council.
Under the recommendations put forward by the Independent Remuneration Panel (IRP), the basic annual allowance for a councillor would increase from £17,964 to £18,431 for the 2027/28 financial year.
The recommended 2.6% increase matches the Consumer Prices Index (CPI) rate of inflation to June 2026. If approved, the basic allowance increase would cost an additional £23,604, bringing the total basic allowance bill for the authority to £1.64 million per year.
The panel has also recommended a matching 2.6% increase in special responsibility allowances (SRAs), which are paid to councillors taking on extra duties such as committee chairs and cabinet posts. This would add £12,455 to the overall SRA bill, bringing the total paid to £491,501 per year.
Philip Battle, chair of North Yorkshire Council’s Independent Remuneration Panel, 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.”
Cllr Carl Les, leader of North Yorkshire Council, thanked the panel for its work, saying: “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.”
North Yorkshire Council’s executive will review the proposals on Tuesday 27th October 2026, before the final decision goes to a full council vote on Wednesday 18th November 2026.
