In a statement issued today, the leaders of Merton and Wandsworth Councils, Cllrs Ross Garrod and Simon Hogg, have jointly condemned proposals from the Wimbledon and Putney Commons Conservators for another inflation-busting rise in the levy they charge to local residents in the area.

“Whilst we continue to work directly with the Wimbledon and Putney Commons Conservators (WPCC), we are deeply disappointed that they are still pushing for a minimum 25 per cent rise in the bills they charge for maintaining their open spaces. This comes in addition to the last increase of just under 13 per cent.

“We are fully aware of the pressure residents are under in the midst of a cost of living crisis, and the scale of this proposed increase is impossible to justify. As responsible councils we simply cannot support another increase on that level.

“If you are a local resident subject to this extraordinary tax, we would urge you to respond to the public consultation to ensure your voices are heard.”

Notes:
A special levy is charged to households living close to Wimbledon Common and also those in the old parish of Putney and is collected through council tax bills. It is paid by residents living in the boroughs of Wandsworth, Merton and Kingston.

The conservators have launched a public consultation on their plans which concludes on October 29. Residents subject to the levy are being urged to take part and have their say on the proposals.