WITH council tax set to rise by three per cent this year, plenty of readers have shared their thoughts.

Cheshire West and Chester Council says it needs to make significant savings in the upcoming financial year (2022-2023) and beyond. 

In total, the budget package for the next three years requires the delivery of £30.8m of savings, with £14.3m required in 2022-23. 

Despite the financial pressures, the council is increasing spending on both Adult and Children Social Care across the borough.

Leader of the council, Cllr Louise Gittins said the budget was set against a backdrop of financial uncertainty.

She added: "We are acutely aware of the financial challenges that some of the borough’s most vulnerable residents face, particularly in relation to the payment of council tax. 

"These are tough times, but we have set a budget that looks after people and invests in the future of our borough."

However, news of the rise has caused plenty of anger and frustration, with many left questioning how it can be justified, with the general cost of living seeing large increases.

Gill Clark, commenting on the Guardian's Facebook page, said: "People have lost jobs, had hours reduced, had no pay rises or even annual bonus. 

"Where is the extra money to come from on top of rising power bills, increasing national insurance contributions and the rapidly rising cost of food?"

Carol Williamson added: "How come people aren’t getting pay rises to help with these increases? 

"Where do they think people will get the money from the people who worked all through the pandemic got nothing at all."

Julie Elizabeth posted: "There are hundreds of houses popping up all over Northwich and surrounding areas, generating millions.

"We need there to be Cheshire West.

"Chester needs to stand alone."

Gaynar Sinar wrote: "I would take the Government cuts excuse if it were not for the grants they have had and masses of extra council tax from the thousands of extra homes built."

Natalie Winnington added: "Bills going up faster/sooner and by a higher margin than wages.

"People already struggling.

"How are people meant to pay the bills on the same wage but with larger outgoings?"

Mike Mason posted: "Isn’t it enough they charge us £40 for a green bin and now a council tax rise. 

"It might not seem much but soon adds up."