THE district council wants to put up council tax in Malvern.

Malvern Hills District Council (MHDC) is set to propose a council tax increase of 2.9% or £5 for band D properties for the 2023/24 financial year.

It says this is far below the rate of inflation and will help to ensure all council services are maintained at current levels.

The proposal would mean band D Council Tax goes up to £177.60 from £172.60 in 2022/23.

According to the council, this would still be one of the lowest council tax bills in the country and the second lowest in Worcestershire.

A spokesperson for MHDC said the rise would ensure the council can keep front line services running, including waste and recycling collections, planning services, housing and green spaces.

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It also allows the council to keep open widely used community assets such as Malvern Splash and Tenbury Community Pool, they said.

The proposal will go to the council’s Overview and Scrutiny Committee on February 7 and, if approved, the final decision will be made at Full Council on February 21.

Cllr Peter Whatley, portfolio holder for resources at Malvern Hills District Council, said: “I understand that an increase in council tax is not something that residents will welcome, but it is vital to ensure our front-line services can continue while utility and other costs are rising at a far greater rate.

“As a council, we believe it is essential to keep all our services at current levels and community assets available.

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“Those include our well-used leisure centres and theatres. If you are struggling to pay your council tax bill, support is available. Please contact MHDC using our website or by phone.”

Depending on circumstances, residents struggling to pay their council tax bill can receive support from the council.

Visit www.malvernhills.gov.uk/council-tax-and-benefits for more information.