RESIDENTS are being asked to have their say on plans to pay more tax towards the Cheshire Fire Authority.

A proposed tax precept rise of 1.99 per cent for 2021-22 could see Band D households pay £80.87 to the fire service, compared to £79.29 in 2020-21.

Cllr Bob Rudd, chairman of the Cheshire Fire Authority, says the increase will help to keep residents safe in the face of funding challenges.

He said: "Since 2014 the Authority has not received an annual capital grant from the government and we assume that going forward the authority 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 the authority has to find other ways to balance its budget in a way that still ensures the safety of the community."

Cllr Rudd says the tax increase will help the authority to deliver its priorities from its five-year Integrated Risk Management Plan.

"This will improve how we provide cover across Cheshire to respond to fires and other emergencies," he added.

"It would also help us continue with our plans to modernise many of our premises to ensure older fire stations across the county can meet modern standards and be fit for the future.

"I greatly welcome the views of the public before going ahead with any proposals and encourage people to fill in the survey."

While the five-year plan includes plans to boost the fire service, the authority says cost savings are expected in the years to come.

Mark Cashin, chief fire officer, said: "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.”

To take part in the consultation visit surveymonkey.co.uk/r/cheshirefirebudget2021

Alternatively, email consultation@cheshirefire.gov.uk, contact Cheshire Fire on Facebook or Twitter, call 01606 868700 or write to Freepost Cheshire Fire Consultation – with no stamp required.

Further information can be found at cheshirefire.gov.uk

The consultation will close on January 28 January.