Councillors in Wales are in for a pay rise next year! 🎉 Starting 2026-27, their basic salary will bump up by 6.4% to £21,044. This boost applies to all 1,234 councillors across Wales’s 22 councils, calculated on the basis of a three-day workweek.
The Democracy and Boundary Commission Cymru is behind this proposal, striving to ensure councillors receive fair pay given current economic constraints. The aim? To encourage broader representation while ensuring remuneration aligns with average Welsh earnings.
Top earners like leaders of Cardiff, Rhondda Cynon Taf, and Swansea councils will see salaries soar to £78,917. Deputy leaders are looking at £55,242, whereas executive/cabinet members will earn £47,350. Leaders of councils in areas like Bridgend and Caerphilly are set for £71,025, while leaders in Blaenau Gwent and others will receive £67,079.
This new proposal is now open for consultation until November 18. One hot topic under discussion is whether councillors who lose their seats should get a resettlement package. The Welsh Government is keen to explore this idea, balancing ex-councillors’ transition needs against council budgets.
Excited about these changes? Let us know your thoughts in the comments! 🗨️