The proposed Essex County Council (ECC) budget for 2021/22 would see Maldon residents in a Band D property paying an £19.80 annual increase in the ECC precept on their council tax bill.

The ECC precept is only one of the charges that is included in the amount of council tax paid each year and the 2021/22 charges for Maldon District Council, parish and town councils and the Essex Police and Fire Service precepts will all go towards making up the final amount.

ECC's Cabinet decided yesterday (Tuesday, 19 January) on the proposed budget and spending plans that will now need to be ratified by Full Council on 23 February.

A spokesperson for ECC said: "Due to strong financial management, ECC has been able to put forward a 0% council tax increase, with a 1.5% increase this year from the Government's Adult Social Care precept - half of that available.

"This means that for an average Band D property household, the ECC element of Council Tax will increase by £19.80 next year, or 38p per week.

"The council's post-pandemic plans balance the needs of Essex residents, the local economy and the environment – while raising council tax bills only by what is absolutely necessary."

The Maldon District Council budget and plan will be debated and ratified by the end of February.