KNUTSFORD Town Council has decided to increase its council tax precept by more than seven per cent.

At a meeting of the full council on January 12, members agreed to increase this year’s precept to £241,846 – which means a band D property paying £42.95.

This is a 7.34 per cent increase on the £225,207 precept set for the period of 2014/15.

Knutsford Town Clerk, Adam Keppel-Garner, said: “In addition to everything else we have been delivering, the new features for the 2015/16 budget include introducing a Town Ranger to make Knutsford a cleaner and smarter town, reflecting the special nature of Knutsford amongst other Cheshire towns, and supporting the CCTV in Knutsford town centre, responding to concerns from residents and the police.

“We are also ensuring Knutsford residents have access to twice weekly Citizens Advice service in the town centre and installing a Changing Places toilet, which enables the carers of those with severe disabilities to visit and use our town centre.

“We will be improving the town’s Christmas displays, providing a starting budget towards the development of a Neighbourhood Plan for Knutsford, and providing a grant to Knutsford Heritage Centre to help them become an accredited museum and plan for their future.

“This is all in addition to what we have been and will be continuing to deliver for the town.”

The newly acquired and pending assets have also played a part in the increased precept.

Some residents have questioned why thousands of pounds have been spent on the transfer of assets.

Debbie Jamison, who also spoke at the meeting, said: “In our times of austerity, Knutsford Town Council appears to have become one of tax and spend. They appear to be living beyond their means with spending more next year than income they will receive.

“In recent years, since their policy of asking for transfer of assets from Cheshire East Council, their request for taxes from Knutsford residents has risen from around £75,000 to nearly £250,000.

“If they continue the transfers, and more of the assets become liabilities not generating projected income and requiring repair and maintenance, the tax demand will skyrocket.”

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