NESTON Town Council has increased their precept by another 20% on council tax bills, after increasing it by over 24% in 2023.

The precept is the parish council's share of the council tax. The precept demand goes to the billing authority, the District Council, which collects the tax for the Parish Council.

The 'precept' is converted into an amount per Council Tax Band that is added onto the Council Tax bill.

Neston Town councillors met at the Full Council meeting on Tuesday, January 23, in order to finalise the budget for the coming financial year.

At the Full Council meeting, the majority of councillors present voted for a 20% increase to Neston Town Council’s precept for 2024/25, which is 4.7% less than last year.

75% of the properties within Neston are rated as a Band D or lower. Households who benefit from Council Tax relief do not pay this precept.

In the coming year, Neston Town Council will focus on its "broader strategic objectives". This is in addition to meeting the current challenges posed by general rising costs.

The increase of less than 24p per week for a Band D property will enable the NTC to progress its strategic priorities including: supporting the improvement of health and wellbeing, protecting and enhancing the local environment, public spaces and heritage, and supporting the development of arts, culture, and events within the town.

NTC said: "As with any financial entity; it is essential that local authorities have sufficient reserves (both general and ear-marked) to finance both day-to-day operations and future plans". 

They continued: "A Council of Neston’s size should plan towards holding the equivalent of three months net revenue expenditure in reserves.

"Following a steady depletion over the last two years, councillors voted in favour of topping up the General Reserves through the precept to ensure the Council remains within the recommended zone.

"This will help to alleviate additional fiscal pressure on the coming year’s budget by spreading the £35,000 shortfall over the next three years, without over-stretching rate-payers to achieve this in only one year.

"Neston Town Council takes future financial planning seriously and the council is committed to building up its finances."

The Mayor of Neston, Cllr Steve Wastell, said: "I am pleased to represent our town and I would like to thank my fellow councillors for their commitment to driving Neston forward.

"Neston Town Council is committed to creating a sustainable market town with a vibrant centre for Neston, its residents, businesses and visitors by fostering a strong community spirit.

"In order to continue accomplishing the objectives set within the Council’s Delivery Plan."