Freeze for West Dorset council tax and parking charges agreed (From Dorset Echo)

Freeze for West Dorset council tax and parking charges agreed

4:15pm Tuesday 26th February 2013 in News

COUNCILLORS have agreed a freeze on council tax and parking charges imposed by West Dorset District Council.

At the first full meeting of the council at its new South Walks House offices, members agreed to keep the authority's share of the council tax at £124.80 for a mid range Band D property for a third year running.

The 2013/14 budget also includes a freeze on charges in the council's car parks, meaning short term fees will stay the same for a seventh year in a row.

Council leader Robert Gould said the authority was able to freeze these charges and maintain its services despite its funding from central government reducing by one third over three years.

He said this was made possible through a 'radical and ambitious programme of change' that included joint working with Weymouth and Portland Borough Council and the recent move to new offices.

Coun Gould said: “It has been a year of unprecedented change and challenges but I'm pleased to tell you that thanks to our staff and members we can present a budget today that would be the envy of other councils.”

Coun Gould also paid tribute to the council's staff for their contribution to the authority.

He said: “I must pay tribute to all our dedicated staff.

“They have endured an unprecedented period of change and uncertainty but through it all they have continued to deliver our services without interruption.”