Edinburgh Council tax rises by three per cent

Edinburgh City Council has announced it will be raising its tax bills by three per cent, to accommodate for spending plans, including a £12 million refurbishment of North Bridge, £7.8 million to address the costs from rising school rolls and an extra £2.5 million to spend on roads and pavements.

Councillors have also agreed an updated 2016-20 Business Plan for the council.

Budget documents show the council has a budget of £968 million, but must make a savings of £38 million.

Alasdair Rankin, the City of Edinburgh Council's convener of finance and resources committee, said: "In 2016 we approved a four-year budget framework which drew on feedback and ideas from the public, and this year's budget continues to reflect residents' priorities.

"Despite an uncertain financial climate we have set a balanced budget for Edinburgh, as well as securing funds for several major projects throughout the city."

In similar news, the Scottish Borders Council has approved a three per cent council tax increase, outlining key investment areas to include roads, bridges, schools, flood protection and economic development.

The council’s spending plans have a £9.5 million savings target.

Aberdeenshire councillors have also voted in favour of a 2.5 per cent rise in council tax, with the approval narrowly being passed by 33 votes for and 32 votes against, following a two hour debate.