Cornwall Council proposes council tax rise

Cornwall Council leaders are proposing a rise in council tax next year as it battles cuts of £43m to its budget.

The cabinet's suggested 1.97% rise would mean about 43p a week extra for a Band D property.

The authority says extra government cuts mean it has £24m less for next year than planned for and is aiming to save another £19m.

The former Conservative/Independent-controlled authority froze council tax for three years running.

'Huge challenge'

John Pollard, leader of the now Liberal Democrat/Independent-led authority, said: "We have to find ways of reducing the budget by a huge amount and that has to mean providing less for the community.

"This is a huge challenge for Cornwall."

He said that a 1.97% rise would mean the council would not be penalised by the government.

Public consultations will be held across Cornwall during September and October.