Residents to pay 5% more for policing

People living in Cheshire will be paying an extra 5% towards the cost of policing next year.

A proposed precept increase has now been approved by the county's Police and Crime Panel, with a Band D property to pay an extra £14 a year.

This is on top of a council tax rise, with Cheshire East, Cheshire West and Chester, and Warrington councils all planning a rise of just under 5%.

Cheshire Police and Crime Commissioner Dan Price said: "I know that people are still feeling the effects of the cost-of-living crisis but it's clear from the consultation that Cheshire residents want more from their police service."

A report said a consultation was carried out last month, with 1,694 responses received online.

A total of 31% of those supported a £14 Band D increase and 36% supported a higher increase, the report said.

The PCC said about two-thirds of Cheshire properties were in council tax bands A-C, so the increase would be lower.

Cheshire East Council and Cheshire West and Chester councils are both planning to put up council tax by 4.99%, while Warrington is proposing a 4.98% increase.

Mr Price said: "The budget that was approved today, will help the constabulary to deliver my Police and Crime Plan which will help communities feel safer and thrive.

"I regularly hear that people want a more visible police service and this increase in funding will help enhance neighbourhood policing."

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