RESIDENTS in Wyre Forest are being urged to have their say on budget proposals that have been put forward by council bosses.

The Conservative administration at Wyre Forest district Council has announced its spending plans for 2018-19 and these have been agreed by members of the Cabinet.

The authority is now inviting the public to comment on the proposals as part of a consultation that will run until Thursday, January 18 2018.

Residents face a tax rise of 1.94 per cent, following a freeze in the district council’s part of bills for the last two years. This will mean an annual increase of £3.98 for people in Band D properties.

Fees and charges for services including car parking will also rise by two per cent plus inflation, with a five per cent cap.

Proposals also include extra savings of £50,000, investing £50,000 in the Localism initiative, providing £38,000 for Spennells Valley nature reserve to replace the boardwalk, funding Wyre Forest’s Community Safety Team at a cost of £30,000 and increasing its commercial income target by £50,000 next year.

They are also looking to continue providing £33,000 for the Community Leadership Fund which supports local initiatives and good causes in every ward of the district.

Cabinet member for Resources Councillor Nathan Desmond said: “We believe these proposals represent the best value for residents in what remains a challenging financial climate.

“Proposals include working as efficiently as possible by simplifying processes, cutting out waste and making best use of technology and digital solutions to deliver services to local residents and businesses.

“At the same time we want to continue to grow our income and look for new ways of working.

“I hope as many people as possible take this opportunity to comment on our proposals. We value their feedback and their views will help shape our future plans.”

Cabinet members will finalise their budget recommendations on Wednesday, February 7 after considering feedback from the public consultation. The final budget will be agreed by full council on Wednesday, February 21.

People can find out more about the budget and complete the consultation survey by visiting www.wyreforestdc.gov.uk/budget2018.

They can also visit www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/QNF3FDR or complete a written questionnaire, which is available at council buildings and libraries.