Council tax frozen for third year running in Ribble Valley

The council has frozen council tax, as well as charges for up to two hours at short-stay car parks in Clitheroe and Longridge, despite a 13% reduction in Government grants. Support for charities and voluntary organisations will also be maintained.

The council’s 2012/13 budget, announced at a special Policy and Finance Committee meeting, means Ribble Valley Borough Council’s share of the council tax on a Band D property will remain at £140.69, the lowest in Lancashire.

Council leader Coun. Michael Ranson said: “We commenced a review of our services last year, and while some tough decisions had to be taken the council has saved the £645,000 needed to produce a balanced budget.”

Local council tax bills include precepts from Lancashire County Council, Lancashire Constabulary, Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service and parishes, some of which have yet to decide the amount they will charge.