Councillors approve 7% rise in Highland council tax

Councillors have to agree to a 7% increase in Highland council tax bills.

It will see the annual cost for an average band D property rise by £106.90 to £1,633.99. The 2025-26 council tax rate for a band D property was £1,527.09.

Of the increase, 5% will go towards core services, with the remaining 2% used for improving roads and schools.

Highland Council said the proposals would deliver a balanced budget without the need for the use of reserves.

The 7% rise is the same as last year's figure.

The increase was voted through at a meeting of the full council in Inverness.

The new rate will take effect from 1 April.