No Northwich Town Council tax hike amid hopes of revival

The 2021-22 budget was approved on Monday night with no precept change.

It means a Band D household will still pay £76.86 across the year.

Town clerk Chris Shaw said: "Officers and members have worked hard over the past few months to come up with a budget that not only offers value for money to our residents but also proves a commitment that this council is making Northwich a town we can all be proud of."

Chris Shaw, Northwich town clerk

The budget includes funding for the permanent illumination of Town Bridge, a fund to support small events throughout the year and cash to supply and install more defibrillators.

Enhancements to the town centre and other locations – such as cleaning, planting and business support – are also included in the budget, along with contract services to other councils, which generates income.

Cllr Andrew Cooper suggested the budget plans would give the town centre in particular a 'shot in the arm' as it emerges from both the flooding and coronavirus.

"I'm really proud of this budget," he said.

"Once we have got the pandemic behind us we need to be ready on the starting blocks as a council to get things going in the town centre."

Cllr Sam Naylor added that keeping the precept the same is 'to be commended', particularly as Cheshire West and Chester Council is expected to increase tax by 4.99 per cent as it faces a funding gap.