In a new draft budget, Breckland District Council has said it is looking to raise council tax for Band D properties by £4.95. This is 5p short of a £5 rise, which would trigger a public vote.

The budget document said that “economic uncertainty, pressures faced by businesses and residents, demographic change and new regulatory requirements” have placed “additional strain on already stretched resources” and forced the council to act.

Swaffham is one of five main market towns in Breckland set to face higher council tax rates (Image: Denise Bradley)

The near-maximum rise comes as part of the government’s "Provisional Local Government Finance Settlement", which sets the limit for district councils at 3pc or £5, depending on which is higher.

In addition to the £4.95 increase for Band D properties within the district, there will also be smaller rises for those living in band A-C properties if the budget is approved.

The wider proposal also sets out........

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