Herefordshire Council's final income, expenditure and savings plans were approved by Full Council on 13 February 2026, with the 2026/27 capital and revenue budgets setting out major investment in the county's future while protecting vital public services.

The 2026/27 capital (long-term spending) programme places a strong emphasis on investing in the county's assets and infrastructure – from roads resurfacing, highways maintenance and housing. Emergency and temporary accommodation received the largest addition to the capital programme in 26/27, meaning, in the future, less reliance on private landlords and reduced revenue budget pressures. There will also be investment in the restoration of the county's historic buildings and continued support for the Hereford Bypass.

Alongside this long-term investment, the revenue budget sets out a responsible plan that closes a £30 million funding gap next year, due to the outcome of the Fair Funding Review not meeting the costs of the growing and more complex needs of our communities, and rural setting. This new formula equates to Herefordshire residents getting 32% less funding per head from Whitehall than those in urban areas. To balance the budget, the council identified £20 million in savings and approved a 4.99% Council Tax increase to meet the costs of delivering services to residents. Support for households facing severe hardship will continue.

Adults and communities

Services within this directorate support adults within the county to enable them to live healthy, happy and independent lives within their local communities. This area includes residential and nursing care, health and wellbeing services and safeguarding of vulnerable adults. It also ensures that communities in Herefordshire are sustainable and provide attractive and well managed places to live and work.

Children and families

The children and families directorate is responsible for services relating to safeguarding, family support and education. Services include safeguarding of children, early help, adoption and fostering, additional educational needs and school admissions.

Economy and place

Services within this area include libraries and museums, electoral services, waste management, energy and environmental management, customer services, strategic and neighbourhood planning, economic development, environmental health and trading standards and highways.

Corporate services

This area supports the overall council performance including electoral services, communications, legal support and financial control.