Wiltshire Council says financial challenges lie ahead as it’s set to publish its draft budget next week.

This follows news that local authorities in England will be able to raise council tax by 5 per cent from April this year with 3 per cent accounting for adult social care levys. The government says the rise will help to bolster local services.

Cabinet member for finance, Pauline Church said: “We are still finalising the draft budget proposals for 2021/22 and can’t confirm details yet.

“However, the draft proposals are due to be published next week.

“Undoubtedly there will be financial challenges ahead, but our priority is to continue to provide vital services to the residents, businesses and communities of Wiltshire during the pandemic and help the county strongly recover from a very difficult time.”

The draft budget is due to be discussed by the council’s cabinet on Tuesday, February 23.