South Ayrshire Council News

Residents who are helping South Ayrshire Council, by paying their Council Tax on time, have helped us exceed our collection rate target for the third month in a row.

The position at 30 June 2010 was that the collection rate was 28.56% against the target set of 28.30%. In monetary terms this means we have collected £164,485 more than we had at 30 June 2009 - an 8.5% increase.

Councillor Robin Reid, Resource and Performance Portfolio Holder for the Council said: "We are very pleased that the majority of residents across South Ayrshire are paying their Council Tax promptly. These people are making it possible for us to plan and deliver important services because we have a steady income flow.

"I would like to thank those who have been paying on time and encourage others to do the same - it will help all of us.

"With the current economic climate a lot of people are having to make tough choices about what to pay. Falling behind with Council Tax payments is something to be avoided, so pay by direct debit, it is easy to set up just call 01292 612838 and one of our employees will be happy to help you."

If you are experiencing difficulty in making payment and are experiencing financial problems you can take some steps immediately to help yourself:

• If you require a short term payment plan, please contact Council Tax staff on 01292 612838 or email council.tax@south-ayrshire.gov.uk
• If you are experiencing serious financial difficulties and you wish to speak to a professional Money Advisor for free advice, please contact the Council on 01292 616060 or visit Trading Standards

If your financial circumstances have changed recently and you wish to apply for Council Tax, benefit contacts your local office. You can also email the Benefits team at

• Ayr - 01292 616009
• Prestwick - 01292 671666
• Troon - 01292 311740
• Maybole - 01655 884855
• Girvan - 01465 716130

Anyone who would like more information about paying their Council Tax, or any other information on Council Tax can log on to www.south-ayrshire.gov.uk/counciltax where there is a range of information to assist people including information on:

• Council Tax charges
• Council Tax discounts and exemptions
• Pay your Council Tax online
• 24 hour Council Tax payment line
• South Ayrshire Debt Helpline
• Council Tax frequently asked questions