Leeds households may pay more for policing as West Yorkshire Police face £10m funding gap
Households in Leeds could pay more to fund policing - after new figures reveal West Yorkshire Police face a £10m funding gap.
Residents across West Yorkshire are being urged to have their say on police funding as part of the local police precept for the next financial year.
The levy is part of the Council Tax bill for the region’s five local authorities - including Leeds - that pays for policing.
Alison Lowe OBE, West Yorkshire’s Deputy Mayor for Policing and Crime, has launched a survey to ask residents for their views on raising the precept.
It could mean households face an extra 19 pence to 26 pence per week cost for those who are in Council Tax Bands A to C.
Ms Lowe said: “It is so important that everyone across the county gives their views on funding for our vital police services.
“We know neighbourhood policing and police visibility really matter to residents, and we are continually working to build public trust and confidence in the service."
"West Yorkshire Police is facing a funding gap of almost £10 million next year, despite taking measures to reduce it.
“Funds raised by an increased precept would cut this by almost £3.5 million, moving us towards a stronger financial position where we can continue to keep our communities safe, just, and inclusive."
Figures from West Yorkshire Combined Authority show over the past year, crime levels have fallen, with more than 5,000 fewer victims, and Victim Satisfaction has risen by over three per cent to 73.9 per cent, according to West Yorkshire Police.
Despite having the fourth largest force, West Yorkshire had the fourth lowest precept level out of 42 forces in England and Wales this year.
The consultation runs until midnight on January 20 2026 and is available at: https://www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/fundingourpolice26-27/