Colchester Council Tax Decision

17 February 2010, 06:22 | Updated: 17 February 2010, 06:27

Colchester residents could be about to get the lowest rise in council tax for 16 years.

The Borough Council's being asked to approve a rise of 2.47% That means the average Band D household in Colchester will pay £175.23 a year. The rate's below that of state pensions and benefit increases.

Councillor Paul Smith, Portfolio Holder for Resources said: "The recommendation of  £4.23 a year or around 8p a week increase for the average band D property provides excellent value for money, especially considering the Council’s continued commitment to maintaining a high standard of frontline services.”

The Council has plans to invest new spending into services including, £55,000 to introduce a specialist graffiti cleaning team,£15,000 to fund consultation with residents on the implementation of 20 mph zones and £15,000 on a new child poverty initiative.

Colchester Borough Council takes a small percentage of the overall Council Tax, (approximately 12%), with the rest divided between Essex County Council, Essex Police, Essex Fire Service and the town or parish councils.