Cost For Policing Set To Rise

Residents across Harborough are likely to pay more for Policing next year.

Leicestershire’s Police and Crime Commissioner is considering increasing the amount charged in Council Tax by up to £15 a year and has launched a survey to get people’s views before making a final decision.

It asks residents whether they would be willing to pay an extra 19p, 23p or 29p per week for a Band D property.

Around 58% of Leicestershire Police’s total funding comes from central Government, with the remainder raised locally through the police ‘precept’.

Police & Crime Commissioner Rupert Matthews

Rupert Matthews says amidst a challenging economic climate he has no choice but to ask for increase in contributions.

He said: “The current financial landscape for policing is the most challenging for a decade.  A nationally-set pay agreement for our local workforce working 24/7, inflation, and fuel costs have all put significant pressure on budgets.

“This is why, while asking you what is important to you, I have no choice but to ask for an increase in the amount of council tax you pay towards policing.

“I appreciate that the increase in the cost of living is proving difficult for many of us. Unfortunately, the police service is not exempt from the impact of energy increases, pay rises and other inflationary pressures.

“The intention is to invest to save – with better technology, support mechanisms and systems – to give Leicestershire Police more time with communities to prevent crime and find criminals.”

Click HERE to take part in the survey.

Northamptonshire residents are set to pay an increase of £15 a year for a Band D home, under proposals by the county’s Police and Crime Commissioner.