Leeds

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Local Government and Council

Information about engaging with the Leeds City Council for local services, permits, and assistance.

Sections

1. Overview of Leeds City Council

Leeds City Council is the local governing body responsible for managing public services and infrastructure in Leeds, one of the largest cities in the UK. The council oversees a wide range of services, including housing, waste collection, education, social care, transportation, and public health. It is funded primarily through council tax, government grants, and business rates.

The council operates from its main office at:

  • Civic Hall, Calverley Street, Leeds, LS1 1UR
  • Website: www.leeds.gov.uk
  • General Contact Number: 0113 222 4444

2. Council Tax

Council tax is a local tax collected by Leeds City Council to fund essential services such as waste collection, street cleaning, schools, and social care.

a. How Council Tax is Calculated

  • Property Banding: Council tax is based on the valuation band of your property, which ranges from Band A (lowest) to Band H (highest). The band is determined by the propertyโ€™s value as of April 1, 1991.
  • Annual Rates: The amount payable depends on your property band and the area you live in. For 2023/24, the average council tax for a Band D property in Leeds is approximately ยฃ1,800 per year.

b. Discounts and Exemptions

You may qualify for discounts or exemptions, such as:

  • Single Person Discount: 25% off if you live alone.
  • Student Exemption: Full exemption for full-time students.
  • Low-Income Support: Council Tax Support (CTS) is available for those on low incomes or benefits.
  • Other Exemptions: Properties occupied by people with severe mental impairments, carers, or under-18s may also qualify for exemptions.

c. Payment Procedures

  • Payment Methods:
    • Direct Debit (preferred and most convenient)
    • Online via the Leeds City Council website
    • By phone: Call 0113 395 7100
    • At a Post Office or PayPoint location
  • Payment Frequency: You can pay annually, monthly (10 or 12 installments), or weekly.

d. How to Set Up or Update Council Tax

  • New Residents: If youโ€™ve just moved to Leeds, you must register for council tax. This can be done online at Leeds Council Tax Registration.
  • Change of Circumstances: Notify the council immediately if your circumstances change (e.g., moving house, change in household members).

3. Local Service Costs

Leeds City Council provides a variety of local services, some of which may involve fees or charges. Below are key services and their associated costs:

a. Waste and Recycling

  • Household Waste Collection: Free for regular collections.
  • Bulky Waste Collection: ยฃ30 for up to 4 items (e.g., furniture, appliances).
  • Garden Waste Collection: Free in most areas, but check availability.

b. Parking

  • On-Street Parking: Charges vary by location, typically ยฃ1โ€“ยฃ3 per hour in the city center.
  • Resident Parking Permits: Free or low-cost permits are available for residents in controlled parking zones.

c. Housing

  • Council Housing Rent: Rent for council properties varies based on property size and location. Average rents are around ยฃ80โ€“ยฃ120 per week.
  • Housing Repairs: Repairs for council tenants are generally free, but some non-essential repairs may incur charges.

d. Leisure and Libraries

  • Leisure Centers: Memberships for council-run gyms and pools start at around ยฃ25 per month.
  • Library Services: Free to join and borrow books, but late returns or lost items may incur small fines.

e. Business Rates

Businesses operating in Leeds must pay business rates, calculated based on the propertyโ€™s rateable value. Small businesses may qualify for relief.

4. Financial Support

Leeds City Council offers several forms of financial assistance to residents in need:

a. Council Tax Support (CTS)

b. Housing Benefit

  • Helps with rent payments for low-income residents. This is gradually being replaced by Universal Credit.
  • Apply via the council or through the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).

c. Discretionary Housing Payments (DHP)

  • Additional financial help for those struggling to pay rent or council tax.
  • Applications can be made online or by contacting the council.

d. Emergency Support

  • Leeds Local Welfare Support Scheme: Provides emergency assistance for food, utilities, or essential household items.
  • Contact: 0113 376 0330

e. Free School Meals

  • Available for eligible children from low-income families. Applications can be made through the councilโ€™s website.

5. Contact Points for Finance and Local Services

If you need assistance or have questions about council tax, local services, or financial support, here are the key contact points:

a. Council Tax and Billing

b. Housing and Rent

c. Financial Support

d. Waste and Recycling

e. General Enquiries

6. Local Considerations

  • Digital Services: Leeds City Council encourages residents to use its online services for faster processing and convenience.
  • Language Support: Translation services are available for non-English speakers.
  • Community Hubs: You can visit local community hubs for in-person assistance with council services. Locations include Merrion House, Armley Community Hub, and Dewsbury Road Community Hub.

7. Tips for Navigating Leeds City Council Services

  • Set Up Online Accounts: Register for an online account on the councilโ€™s website to manage payments, apply for services, and track applications.
  • Keep Documents Handy: For financial support applications, you may need proof of income, ID, and tenancy agreements.
  • Act Early: Apply for discounts, exemptions, or support as soon as possible to avoid delays.

This guide should help you navigate the financial and local services provided by Leeds City Council. If you have further questions, feel free to ask!