Cheshire West tax rises and budget cuts confirmed

Council officials say they face their "most difficult ever" financial situation

Council tax will rise by 4.99% for people living one half of Cheshire.

Cheshire West and Chester Council approved the increase, and several service reviews, in a bid to save £29.8m over the coming financial year.

Officials said they were facing their "most difficult ever" financial situation since the council's creation in 2009.

There are also plans to cut 124 jobs, including 46 in the coming year.

The services review will include museums, libraries and Shopmobility.

At the meeting on Thursday, an amendment calling for decisions on green waste collection charges to be made by councillors as part of the annual budget was rejected.

It came after a 25% increase in the charges for an opt-in fortnightly green waste collection was announced on 4 January .

The cost now stands at £50 a year.

The meeting also confirmed the council's revenue budget will be £411m for 2024/25.

Neighbouring Cheshire East Council is also proposing a 4.99% council tax increase, with a decision due to be made on 27 February.

It has warned it is facing effective bankruptcy without government help.

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