CHESHIRE Fire Authority is asking the public to give their views on its plans to increase its share of council tax for the 2021/22 financial year.

The authority is proposing an increase of 1.99 per cent taking the cost per year to £80.87 for a band D equivalent property.

The precept currently stands at £79.29 per year for a band D property.

Chair of Cheshire Fire Authority (CFA), Councillor Bob Rudd, said: "The £1.58 per year council tax increase we are proposing will assist the service in responding to incidents and help keep residents in Cheshire safe.

"Since 2014 the Authority has not received an annual capital grant from the government and we assume that going forward we will receive no, or very small increases, in central government funding.

"This means we would not be able to cover ongoing costs such as inflation. Instead we have to find other ways to balance its budget in a way that still ensures the safety of the community."

Cheshire Chief Fire Officer Mark Cashin said: "The Authority's Integrated Risk Management Plan is an ambitious plan to improve the spread of fire cover across Cheshire and how we respond to a range of emergencies.

"However, the financial outlook is very uncertain and it is likely that some savings will be required over the next few years.

"While this increase will help the service to deliver its plans, officers will continue to review our budgets to ensure we are as efficient as possible and that spending is directed towards the service's priorities.

Residents can give their views by January 28, 2021 when the the consultation closes by completing a short online survey.

They can also email [email protected] or ring 01606 868700' or write to Freepost Cheshire Fire Consultation (no stamp required).