The 9.85% Aberdeen council tax hike has formally been voted through - along with new and upgraded schools, investment in infrastructure and the city centre and increased support for vulnerable people.
In its 2025/26 budget meeting yesterday, the administration agreed the expected 9.85% council tax rise despite criticism from opposition members that it was trying to "fool" the public by "knocking off 0.15% so you can pretend Aberdeen doesn’t have a double-digit council tax rise".
The dramatic tax rise, the highest of any city in Scotland, will net the local authority an additional £13million over the year, which is hoped to stave off more drastic cuts to services.
The council also agreed to spend £247million on schools over the next five years, including a brand new Hazlehead Academy at a cost of £121million.
The Berryden Corrdor improvement works will also be resumed with a £55million price tag. The project had been shelved in last year's budget.
Just over £1.5million will also be allocated to the Fairer Aberdeen Fund, with an extra £9.5million to deliver social care.
Councillor Alex McLellan, convener of the Finance and Resources Committee, said: “Despite the council operating in incredibly challenging circumstances, we remain focussed on delivering essential public services and assisting people through the ongoing cost-of-living crisis.
“Aberdeen City Council is continuing to invest in the school estate, in roads, and other key infrastructure such as the regeneration of the city centre and beach area.
“These actions will ensure Aberdeen continues to be a place people want to live, want to work, want to raise a family, and want to start a business.”
The council is also set to fund a fourth Cruyff Court for the city, located in Kincorth, in partnership with the Denis Law Legacy Trust.