Local authority freezes 2012 council tax

HOUSEHOLDERS in Moray were given an early Christmas present yesterday when councillors unanimously agreed to peg next year’s council tax.

The level is normally set as part of the annual budget meeting in February. But Councillor Allan Wright, chairman of the policy and resources committee, told a meeting of the full council in Elgin that a review of next year’s revenue budget was already at an advanced stage, allowing it to set next year’s tax level two months early.

He said: “I am sure it will bring a measure of Christmas cheer to the people of Moray.”

The decision will see Band D properties pegged at the current level of £1,135.

Councillor Pearl Paul, leader of the council’s opposition SNP group, said: “Council tax is one area that we can make a difference to people, and today’s announcement will provide at least one degree of certainty for household budgets for the coming year.”