Council tax rise of 4.99% approved

Councillors backed the measures

Councillors have approved a 4.99% council tax rise for residents.

City of Wolverhampton council voted for the measures, which its ruling Labour group said represented a balanced budget for the year ahead.

Councillor Louise Miles, cabinet member for resources, said the plans would allow bosses to support struggling residents, invest in young people and deliver services.

The rise means an "average" band D property will pay £2,004.27 a year from April 2024 before additional precepts for fire and police are taken into account.

An amendment put forward by the Conservative group was rejected.

"Legal and financially balanced" amendments floated by councillor Udey Singh on behalf of the group included free car parking on weekends, a reintroduction of neighbourhood wardens and more proactive tree maintenance.

Mr Singh warned the council found itself in a very difficult position unless it focused on growing its income through the upskilling workers and attracting inward investment.

Ms Miles said she was proud to move the budget and resources would be aligned to the needs and priorities of local people.

The rise would also include a 2% rise in budgets for adult social care.