Monmouthshire residents will see a smaller rise in this year’s council tax bills, after a council meeting shot down an amendment calling for a steeper tax hike.

The county council has confirmed a 3.95 per cent rise, meaning the average Band D household will have to pay £1,138 in the next financial year, a £43 increase.

Councillors rejected an amendment tabled by independent councillor Francis Taylor for an increase of 4.95 per cent by 21 votes, to six in favour. Ten councillors abstained from the ballot.

The increase comes as the council tries to balance its budget, following a £2.9m cut handed down from the Welsh Government. Although a slight improvement in finances meant a smaller rise can be permitted.

The proposed amendment would have seen an extra £10.95 per year added to bills, which Councillor Taylor justified by highlighting that just 20p a week extra would add £432,000 to offset potential service cuts.

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