AN INCREASE in council tax equivalent to 50p per month for a band D property was voted through by Kendal Town Council.

Cllr Guy Tirvengadum said the council had faced 'some new and increased costs this year'.

"But, in setting a balanced budget, we’ve ensured that our exciting programme of improvements can continue," he said.

In Kendal, the town council funds civic planting, public seating, some footway lights, some bus shelters, allotments, Christmas lights and litter bins.

Cllr Doug Rathbone, mayor of the town, said: "It’s important for the people of Kendal that the town council continues to seek lasting improvements in our town.

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"To safeguard the town council’s leading role in a time of change, we’ve set a budget to meet the challenges.

"The town council’s budget is set in the face of several outside pressures, from the sharp rise in inflation to the turmoil imposed by local government reorganisation.

"It will help us continue to serve the people of Kendal."

The Kendal Town Council precept represents three per cent of the council tax bill for people living in the civil parish of Kendal.

The increase in council tax is to be imposed in the 2023/24 financial year.