County council set to put council tax by 3.5 per cent

Council tax is set to rise by 3.5 per cent for Lincolnshire residents.
Cllr Martin HillCllr Martin Hill
Cllr Martin Hill

The county council says it will be investing extra money in roads and tackling flooding.

And despite £14m planned in efficiency savings, it still neds to increase its share of the council tax bill by a total of 3.5 per cent.

That equates to a 1.5 per cent general increase and a further 2 per cent ringfenced for for adult social care.

As a result, council tax to Lincolnshire County Council for a Band D property would increase by £45.18 a year to £1337.58.

On top of that, residents in the Boston area will pay additional precepts to the police, the borough council, and in some cases, parish councils.

The county’s executive members today approved budget proposals for 2020/21, which will now go out to consultation. Final proposals will be put before full council in February.

Cllr Martin Hill, Leader of Lincolnshire County Council, said: "We know that road repairs and flooding are a priority for many residents.

"So, despite the continued reduction in our main government grant, we're proposing to spend around £4m on 16 extra highways gangs next year, who'll carry out additional maintenance across the county, including pothole repairs.

"In addition, more than £2m will go towards extra drainage repairs and new flood-response equipment for Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue.

"£350,000 will be set aside for a 'green masterplan', with the council aiming to become carbon neutral by 2050 – or sooner if that's practicable."

Cash will also be earmarked for a number of future projects, including the creation of new school places and projects to boost economic growth and reduce traffic congestion in Boston.

Cllr Hill added: "Although it's an improving picture for council finances, there are still challenges ahead, particularly with regard to the ever-growing demand for adult care.

"The government has provided an additional £14m towards adults and children's social care this year, but we urgently need to see a long-term plan for dealing with an ageing population.

"It's vital this uncertainty over future funding is addressed so we can be sure that residents will continue to receive the best possible care.

"We'll also continue to push for fairer funding for Lincolnshire. It's long been recognised that rural areas like ours receive less than their fair share of Government money. It's time for that to be put right."