CREDITON Town Council says it has been looking carefully at its financial position this month.

In a statement, the council said that it is the time of year when it sets the budget that it needs to carry out its programme of work.

The council has, therefore, agreed an increased amount that will enable it to do this in 2022-23.

It will mean a precept of £386,378, which is £138.31 for the year for a band D property, an increase of 32p per week.

The statement reads: “The Town Council aims to ensure that council taxpayers get value for the money they pay and that it is spent on activities and assets that they support.

“Crediton residents have always told us how much they appreciate anything that greens up the town. Flower tubs, hanging baskets and trees in the built environment have always been popular.

“Public conveniences are also frequently mentioned as an essential town centre service.

“This year, it’s the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee so we all want the town looking its best for the long weekend of celebrations in June.

“We want all our facilities to be the best they can be for residents and visitors and we want them to be maintained in good condition for the rest of the year.

“As well as that, we will continue to supply floral decorations in the High Street and the Town Square, maintain our open spaces particularly People’s Park and Upper Deck, and monitor the town’s footpath network so that everyone can enjoy outdoor activities and facilities somewhere, whatever their needs or mobility.

“We are also committed to developing our youth work, funding community groups, CCTV and working in partnership with businesses and other local enterprises to support and increase activities in the town.

“We want to be ready for the further withdrawal of services by the other local authorities. The county and district councils have both had to make cuts in recent years.

“The youth service and verge cutting are no longer supplied by the county.

“The district council has divested itself of most of the public toilets in Crediton. The one remaining may soon go the same way along with street cleansing.

“It’s always good to have some funds in reserve for unexpected changes at short notice.

“The town council’s services will cost a Band D property £2.66 per week over the next year.

“We keep residents informed of projects and services through our newsletter, website and social media. We regularly consult on plans and undertake surveys on projects.

“You can read our Town Strategy 2020-25 and our Neighbourhood Plan 2018-2033 on the website.

“If you have questions about our finance or services, please contact the Town Clerk, Rachel Avery, at 8A North Street, Crediton, EX17 2BT or by telephoning 01363 773717 or emailing: [email protected] .”

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