COUNCIL tax in Warrington is £104 cheaper than the average rate in Wales.

Figures have confirmed the average band D council tax in Wales this year is £1,420 – £171 less than in England.

However, Warrington's band D figure, which totals £1,315.90, falls £104.10 cheaper than the Welsh figure.

Cllr Russ Bowden, executive board member for corporate finance, said the authority 'will continue to do its best to provide services that are value for money' while keeping the rates 'as low as possible'.

He added: "It's interesting to see our council tax rates in comparison with other authorities.

"Often residents don't realise how much people pay in other parts of the country.

“As a council, members and officers, we have worked very hard to try to soften the blow from the Government's austerity cuts.

"The invest-to-save work being done in Warrington is the blueprint for authorities nationwide.

"We have been nationally recognised for our approach to using our capital funds to raise money to keep the borough's essential services running.

"Just this week we have been shortlisted for another national award for innovation in finance."

Council leader Cllr Terry O'Neill has again slammed the Government again following the budget cuts hitting the borough.

He said: "In very difficult times we are delivering on our ambitions.

"We are committed to looking after the most vulnerable and we will do everything we can do to protect our communities from these vicious cuts.

"We will do all we can to make sure we are a successful town where our people are proud of where they live.

"We are being very smart in the ways we are using our assets to deliver services as best as we can."

Conservative Warrington South MP David Mowat has responded to the criticism of the Government.

He said: "Even with the measures the Government has taken since 2010, we are still borrowing £1 for every £14 we spend and that is simply not sustainable.

"We have rightly protected the NHS and schools' budget but that does mean that savings have to be found elsewhere – including from local government.

"However, the recent budget provided an additional £7 million for Warrington to spend on social care over the next three years.

"It's also important to note that Labour's manifesto at the last election ruled out additional funding for local government."