Council tax collection rate improves

Rochdale Borough Council has boosted public funds to the tune of £300,000 after a successful drive to increase the council tax collection rate.

During the financial year 2011/12 the rate rose to 95.4% compared to 95.1% for the previous 12 months.

The increase was the result of the council targeting residents who had the means to pay but chose not to. With council tax legally classed as a priority debt, the Revenues and Benefits Service clamped down on people who chose to pay off non-essential items such as credit and store cards.

Action taken against those who refused to pay included County Court Judgements, which can significantly affect credit ratings, as well as applications for bankruptcy and charging orders against homes.

Penny Sharp, Director of Customers and Communities at the council, said: “We will always be sympathetic to people who are in genuine financial difficulties and will work with them to find a practical way forward.

“But, especially in the current economic climate, it is wrong for people to avoid paying their council tax in order to fund a lifestyle that they would not otherwise be able to afford.

“The council will continue to take action to ensure that people pay their fair share when it comes to financing the public services on which we all rely.”

Residents who anticipate having difficulties paying their council tax for genuine reasons should call 0845 121 2970 as soon as possible.