PROPOSALS to increase the policing part of council tax have been unanimously approved by a policing panel today.

The 1.99 per cent increase, proposed by Avon and Somerset police and crime commissioner Sue Mountstevens and approved by the police and crime panel, is equivalent to an extra £3.48 a year for the average Band D household.

This means that from April 2016 the average Band D household will pay £178.26 for policing.

PCC Sue Mountstevens said: “This was not a proposal I considered lightly. I am fully aware that hardworking families will find any tax increase difficult. 

“Although George Osborne said that he would protect the police budget, he expected Commissioner’s across the country to rise the policing part of the council tax in order to keep the police budget balanced.

“Over 70% of the 3,000 people we spoke to said that they supported an increase in the policing part of the council tax.

“I hope that like me the Constabulary take heart from this support because it shows that their hard work is valued and appreciated by the communities they serve. I am also pleased that the Police and Crime Panel unanimously accepted my proposals.”

The panel acknowledged the final police funding settlement is better than had been feared, but it was noted that £16.7 million of savings was required over the next five years to balance budgets.

The PCC reiterated her continued commitment to work with the chief constable to drive efficiency from collaboration and partnership working, in order to meet the emerging demand pressures and enhance service delivery at the same time as making the required savings.

Panel chairman, Cllr Nigel Ashton, said: "While we all understand that tax increases are never popular, we do accept that policing has a great deal of support in the community. 

“The 1.99% precept increase equates to £3.48 per year on an average band D property. We therefore unanimously supported the Commissioner’s proposal.”