Good News in Budget for Bury Locals

Reporter: Ask Bury
Date online: 22 February 2008

In the first Conservative budget for 20 years councillors announced at a meeting last night that the Bury Council element of this year's council tax is set to rise by 3.4%, a third less than the rises from the last two years.

What's more those who have been struggling to pay their council tax will be delighted with the news that all Bury Council tax payers are being given the opportunity to pay next year's council tax by twelve monthly instalments instead of ten.

There was further good news for Bury's over 65's who are not in receipt of benefits. They will once again be getting a discounted rate with a reduction of 3.4%, which is an improvement on last year's 2%.

In announcing the budget last night Councillor Redstone Executive Member for Resource and Performance said: "We are conducting a root and branch investigation into how best to manage and deliver the services that we as a Council provide to our residents.  This cannot be done overnight and it is anticipated that the results will start to become apparent as we move into the autumn".

Councillors have promised to spend £1.625m on new priorities, with over £1m new funding for adult services. They have also supported an inflation busting 7.5% rise for the Greater Manchester Police Authority this year which will mean more police on Bury's streets. The elderly residents were not the only surprise recipients of price cuts, the council has also sent out an open invitation to all serving forces personnel living in Bury to come and visit its gyms and leisure centres without charge.