ROSS-on-Wye Town Council increased its precept for the next financial year.

This rise equates to approximately £2 extra per month for Ross residents with a Band D council tax property.

The council set the budget at an extraordinary meeting after considering its staffing structure to ensure that there are sufficient human resources to fulfil the council’s responsibilities and ambition to provide what the community expects.

It was also recognised that there is a continuing financial impact of the decision to take over assets from Herefordshire Council which was made after full consultation with residents.

Improvements to the amenity land now owned by the council is ongoing with some work taking place along the riverbank in a joint initiative with the Wye Valley AONB.

One of the key projects considered was the need to start renovations to the Market House. After consultation with Historic England and the engagement of a qualified conservation accredited architect the council has budgeted £45,000 to commence work on what is likely to be a long-term commitment, it is also hoped that external funding through grant applications will be successful to help with the cost of this.

The town council will continue to help local organisations and groups by financially supporting projects that benefit residents with £7,500 being included in the grants budget for this purpose.

Other funding goes towards supporting services and initiatives such as the reinstatement of regular sessions from the CAB, the CCTV system, the Neighbourhood Plan, Bands in the Park and Christmas lights.