THE average taxpayer in Witney will pay approximately 40 pence a month extra from April 1.

The decision to increase the precept payment by three per cent was agreed by Witney Town Council, and will see a rise of £4.64 this year for a Band D property.

The precept takes into account budgeting for projects including work on the Corn Exchange, at cemeteries, and the Christmas lights display.

Ineligible for Government grants, the council has also lost income as a result of coronavirus, while the council said the forecast for running its services for 2021/22 cannot be anticipated due to the pandemic.

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Leader of the council, Luci Ashbourne, said: “I’m proud that despite the challenges the last year has thrown at us, and the resultant funding difficulties, Witney Town Council is only raising its council tax by around 10 pence a week.

“This will not only allow us to continue providing our services, but also to expand what we can offer to the people of Witney at a time when our community needs it the most, and to carry on with the many exciting developments that are in the pipeline.

“Whether it is a revitalised Corn Exchange, revamped open spaces, or helping the town’s many volunteer groups, the town council is committed to being the progressive, dynamic and forward-thinking council that Witney deserves.”