District tax up

This represents a 23p a week increase for a band-D council taxpayer.

Part of the increase is due to a decision to make the kerbside recycling scheme available to all households within the district, the introduction of a free concessionary bus pass allowing travel at half-fare anywhere in Sussex, and a further decision to have abandoned vehicles collected quickly.

Added council leader Cllr Ann De Vecchi: 'In addition we have set aside enough money to continue to oppose the building of an incinerator in Newhaven.

'In order to make our books balance we have looked very carefully at all areas of expenditure.

'The extra amount needed for next year's budget is 705,309.

'We will receive Government funding of 249,044 so we need to raise the balance of 456,265 through council tax payments.

'This means an overall increase of 23 pence per week for a resident in a band-D property, a 9.25 per cent increase on last year.'

Resident's full council tax bills are made up of the budget needs of East Sussex County Council, the Sussex Police Authority and their district council and local town or parish council.

The whole council tax figure will be set later this month.