In 2021 it was announced by Finance Secretary (and prospective First Minister) Kate Forbes that the SNP’s freeze on council tax rises – enforced since 2007 – would be coming to an end.
It gave the green light to cash-strapped local authorities to raise more money from residents to plug holes in their ever-diminishing budgets.
This year will see substantial rises across Scotland, adding further to the misery of the cost of living crisis.
Most councils have agreed on a rise of around 5 per cent, including both Edinburgh and Glasgow.
But some have gone for bigger increases – up to 10 per cent. Here are the areas with the 11 biggest council tax rises.
. Council tax
If you live in one of these 11 local authority areas you'll be facing a bigger-than-average council tax rise. Photo: Canva/Getty Images
. Orkney
Islanders living in Orkney are facing up to the biggest council tax rise in Scotland this year - a wallet-busting 10 per cent hike. Photo: Canva/Getty Images
. East Lothian
Residents of East Lothian are facing a 7 per cent council tax hike. The council area includes the town of Musselburgh (pictured). Photo: Canva/Getty Images
1. Orkney
Islanders living in Orkney are facing up to the biggest council tax rise in Scotland this year - a wallet-busting 10 per cent hike. Photo: Canva/Getty Images
2. East Lothian
Residents of East Lothian are facing a 7 per cent council tax hike. The council area includes the town of Musselburgh (pictured). Photo: Canva/Getty Images
3. Falkirk
People living in and around Falkirk will see council tax bills increase by a hefty 7 per cent. Photo: Canva/Getty Images
4. Stirling
Residents of historic Stirling will also see a council tax increase of 7 per cent. Photo: Canva/Getty Images