Bexhill residents are facing a shocking 120% increase in Bexhill Special Expenses – with no clear explanation of what they are paying for.

We, the undersigned residents of Bexhill-on-Sea, call on Bexhill Town Council and Rother District Council to halt and fully justify the proposed council tax precept increase for 2026/27 before it is approved.

Why we are concerned – Bexhill-on-Sea residents already pay some of the highest council tax in the country.  Despite this, Bexhill Town Council is proposing a substantial increase to its share of council tax.

This increase is being justified by potential plans to take on or purchase assets from Rother District Council.  However, residents have not been given clear or complete information about these plans.

Residents have not been provided with:

A public list of assets proposed for transfer or purchase

Clear confirmation of ownership versus maintenance responsibility

Guarantees that assets will transfer in the 2026/27 tax year

Assurance that extra funds will be ring-fenced if transfers do not occur

There is also serious risk that resident could end up paying twice – once though the Town Council precept and again through the District Council charge – unless Rother District Council reduces its share accordingly.

What we are asking for before any increase is approved:

Full transparency on proposed assets and costs

Formal ring-fencing of any additional funds

A clear commitment that any asset transfer will be tax-neutral for residents

Meaningful consultation with residents before final decisions are made

Why this matters:

At a time of rising living costs, residents should not be asked to fund unclear or unconfirmed commitments.  Any council tax increase must be fair, transparent, and properly safeguarded.

We urge both councils to pause this increase and provide clear answers before asking residents to pay more.