massive tax hike

A GIGANTIC rise in Halton's council tax is imminent, the council has confirmed.

As exclusively revealed in the World, the biggest increase ever imposed, is likely, following huge cuts from the Government.

Figures are set to rocket by 15 per cent - a rise of between £83 and £112 a year for most residents.

A contentious new funding formula has penalised prudent Halton - disgruntled councillors claim they have been "kicked in the teeth".

One angry councillor, said: "We cut services last year and have always prided ourselves on the lowest council tax. Now we're being forced to impose a big increase."

Another councillor, added: "We have been kicked in the teeth."

The Government is providing £110m in grants towards the borough's 2003/4 budget of £144m - leaving a staggering £34m difference.

To bridge the gap, a colossal council tax rise of 20 per cent is needed.

Council leader, Cllr Tony McDermott, is hoping to limit the rise to 15 per cent, by using additional resources.

He said: "Halton is one of the losers in this new system. The final model chosen means that we lost over £2m in funding which means we have to raise £2m just to stand still.

"With the falling pupil numbers in schools and other changes made to specific grants, we feel we have no option but to plug the gap. We will not let our children suffer."

Education and social services will receive top priority.

The council has pledged to:

Increase spending in real terms by £6m

Invest £2m extra into education to offset government cuts

Reduce the time people wait to get help through social services

Make sure parks and open spaces are maintained to a high standard

Improve disability access to public buildings

Accelerate the housing and council tax benefit service

Council tax figures will be finalised on March 5.