COUNCILLORS at Maldon District Council have approved council tax and fees and charges for 2022/23.

The average Band D property in the Maldon district will see an increase of £5 per year, or 9.6p per week, in the amount which is retained by the district council.

The income from the council tax which is collected by the district council is shared with Essex County Council, which is the largest proportion, Essex Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner and the amount which is requested separately by the town or parish council.

The Government has recognised the pressures facing councils and residents and has introduced a £150 refund for those in band A-D properties as well as allocating money for a discretionary fund.

READ MORE: Who won the Maldon District Council by-election?

Presenting the budget on February 24, the district council leader Penny Channer said: "This financial year has been a challenging one for Maldon District Council, again we have been impacted by the Covid pandemic, but I’m proud to say a great deal has also been achieved."

“It is incredibly difficult when you have the responsibility for setting the council tax knowing the pressure it will put on residents," she continued.

“Looking ahead to the pressures faced and the services needed, an increase of 9.6p a week council tax has been approved.

"With inflation at 5.5 per cent, this council tax increase is well below at 2.41 per cent.

“The council will be reviewing corporate contracts including waste and leisure and will continue to identify where we can benefit from shared services and achieving more through our partnership working.

“Budgets need to be sustainable; it is not just about balancing budgets; it is important that use of reserves is not increasing year on year.

"We need to look ahead, prepare for additional pressures and continue to find ways to generate income from commercial activities.”