A new budget will help bring a feel-good factor back to the area, according to the leader of Burntwood Town Council.
The Conservative-controlled authority has approved a controversial new financial plan which included a rise of more than a third in its council tax precept.
But Cllr Richard Mosson, leader of the council, insisted his party were looking to breathe new life into the town.
“We see this budget as an opportunity to move forward in the ways we can serve the community of Burntwood,” he said.
“The previous council tax precept was based on a stagnant council – this is a positive budget and I’m proud that it has vision and community spirit at its heart.
“As a controlling group we are offering the town a feel-good factor.”
Labour councillors had opposed the budget, accusing the Conservative leadership of embarking on a “spend, spend, spend policy”.
Cllr Eric Drinkwater said: “While it’s good to see a reduction in the increase to 37% from more than 60% it is not enough.
“There are plenty of things which could be cut from the current budget.
“Things like the Christmas Festival are admirable, they should not come at the expense of Burntwood taxpayers – they should be run by community groups and funded through other routes, such as local businesses.”
