TAXPAYERS in Ross-on-Wye will be asked to pay more towards their town council during the next financial year.

Town councillors this week unanimously agreed to increase its precept by 2% to £515,328 – the total expenditure budget will be £563,478.

This represents council tax bill a rise of about £2.57 annually per household on an average band D property.

And takes the total which will go directly to the town council for each of these properties to around £131.24.

“This year particular emphasis is being put on enhancing the environment, supporting artistic and cultural events, and encouraging tourism,” a council spokesperson said.

“The council’s ambition is to support our lively market town.

“The council has listened to residents and is committed to deliver services fairly and efficiently, whilst making wise use of natural and financial resources and reducing its CO2 footprint following the declaration of a climate emergency.”

Council representatives say they have made a renewed commitment to recognise its responsibilities to maintain its assets and amenities for the benefit of the town, to provide a clean and vibrant environment for residents, visitors and workers.

“The council accepted the need to make a small increase in its precept in line with the cap imposed by central government to all principal authorities of 2%,” the spokesperson said.

“The budget reflects expenditure to maintain its assets such as the open spaces along the riverside, the markets, public toilets, Homs Road car park, The Corn Exchange and the Market House, which completed phase 1 of its renovations last Summer.”

The council has set aside £25,000 to improve tourism and to access significantly more external funding.