A Norfolk council has warned of ‘difficult and uncomfortable’ months ahead as it plans to hike its tax charges in the district.
Members of Breckland Council say challenges such as funding cuts and a lack of certainty surrounding political organisation in Norfolk will make for a ‘perfect storm’.
The authority has faced criticism in recent months over its financial management after several controversial investments came to light.
Breckland council. Picture: LDRS
People living in towns such as Thetford, Swaffham and Watton can expect to pay an extra four per cent in Council Tax this year as it seeks to balance the books despite strong headwinds.
The council’s Conservative-controlled cabinet has voted in favour of the changes, but they will be further debated by all members next week.
The proposals would see a Band D property pay an additional £4.95 a year to finance council services such as bin collections and licensing.
Paul Hewett, cabinet member for property and projects, said: “These are some of the most difficult circumstances that I’ve seen in the last two decades. There is no doubt that there are massively challenging times ahead.
“There will be difficult and uncomfortable choices to make. But we can’t pull away from the serious financial challenges we face.”
Breckland Council has recently come under the spotlight over controversial past investments made from the public purse.
It was criticised after it emerged the authority had invested nearly £150,000 on two apps that are no longer available to download.
It also came under fire for its use of funds after it emerged it paid an artist £16,000 for a mural project that was never painted.
The authority is also still trying to sell Barnham Broom Club and Hotel – which it is advertising for less than it was purchased – almost a year on and after spending £15,000 on legal fees to prevent commercial details from being made public.
These investments have been subject to particular scrutiny since the council revealed its intention to introduce car parking charges across the district to help pay upkeep bills.