COUNCILS across the country have been raising council tax in line with inflation – and Haslemere Town Council is no different. 

At its latest council meeting a proposed rise of 6.9 per cent was agreed, with the budget due to be finalised in the new year. Residents in Band D properties currently pay £52.70 for town council services, compared to the third tier national average of £79.35, which gives the council £410,115 per year.

Farnham residents pay £73.21, which generates £1,315,900, those in Petersfield £165.95 (£964,619) and people living in Whitehill & Bordon £98.42 (£515,455).

The 6.9 per cent rise would see Haslemere residents paying an additional £4.50 each year. 

While the council knew the financial pressures people are facing, it was also feeling the squeeze. It was asked at the meeting where funding should be cut to make up the shortfall if councillors did not agree to the 6.9 per cent rise.