No increase in Council Tax

Councillor Colin Lambert

Rochdale Council has agreed that, as part of the budget set out for 2014/15, there will be no increase in council tax this year.

In the budget it was also agreed that there will be no further cuts to services for the next year.

Councillor Colin Lambert said after the budget meeting: “I am pleased to say that we have passed a budget for 2014/15, which has sought to balance the impact on both the council tax payer and front line services.

“There will be no increase in council tax and no additional cuts to services for this financial year.”

Residents of Rochdale think that these plans are a step in the right direction for Rochdale Council with many people commenting that the plans were “good ideas from the Council.”

Donna Williams said: “I don’t think council tax should ever increase. I think it’s good that they have stopped it from increasing this year. I also think it’s great that there will be no cuts to services.”

Phillip Diamond said: “I think council tax should always stay the same. Maybe a reduction in the tax would be nice?”

Mrs Ridley added: “I think it is a good idea but I’m not too sure how it will work. They won’t be getting any more money coming in but yet they won’t be making any cuts. It is good news to hear and it is positive news but I’m not too sure how it will work.”

Debra Flemmings said: “I’m glad it is not increasing. I don’t like paying it as it is so it is good news. It is the one bill that I detest paying.”

Councillor Lambert added: “We have been through very difficult times and we will continue to strive for excellence and provide value for money to the taxpayers of the borough.”

The budget that was agreed at last night's meeting has been described as robust but the Leader of the Council believes that challenges could be ahead for setting the budget for 2015/2016 and beyond.