Council tax increases 'to be kept to a minimum'

Friday, November 6th 2009

A new survey has suggested that many local councils in England intend to keep council tax rises for the 2010-11 period as low as possible.

The poll by magazine the Local Government Chronicle (LGC) found that the average increase could be 1.6 per cent, compared with the three per cent rise implemented this year.

More than 80 councils offered a figure for their estimated tax increases, with 34 per cent stating that they intend to cut or freeze rates.

The minimal council tax increases predicted by authorities can be attributed to the currently low level of inflation, the LGC said.

"Council tax changes have to be seen against the general economic background," commented Worcestershire County Council director of finance Mike Weaver.

Tax bills are usually reduced for consumers in special circumstances.

For example, lower council tax rates may be applicable if the property is empty, only one adult lives there or if it is inhabited by students.