3,000 town hall executives on six-figure salaries despite rising taxes and squeezed services

Key Points:

More than 3,000 town hall executives earned six-figure salaries in 2023, the highest in almost a decade.

At least 175 local authority bureaucrats made over £200,000, according to research.

Critics raised concerns about high pay for council bosses as workers face increased taxes and services are under pressure.

The annual Town Hall Rich List from the TaxPayers’ Alliance revealed 3,106 staff earning more than £100,000, the highest since 2015.

Top Earners and Reactions:

The highest earner, Felicity Roe from Hampshire Council, received £651,158 including pension and compensation upon leaving after a restructure.

Westminster Council had the most staff on six-figure salaries, with a total of 60.

TaxPayers’ Alliance chief John O’Connell questioned if funds were going towards essential services.

Westminster Council and Hampshire Council defended the salaries, citing the skills required for leadership roles and restructuring processes.