Furious row erupts at budget-setting council meeting
Trafford Council has approved a 7.49% increase in council tax, following a contentious meeting marked by accusations of mismanagement. The Conservative opposition criticized the Labour-led council for financial missteps, claiming it has driven the authority to the brink of bankruptcy. The council, permitted by the government to raise taxes without a referendum, also borrowed £9.6 million. Other charges will rise by an average of 4%. The council defended the hike as necessary to address financial deficits and invest in key services.
