TOWN hall chiefs have approved plans to change the annual date that council tax payers cough up their cash.

Bury's executive committee this week gave the go-ahead to finance bosses to move the payment dates forward from the 15th to the 5th of each month, but only for those who pay by cash or cheque.

The move will affect 43,000 taxpayers, some 55 per cent, starting next April. People who pay by direct debit, however, will still have a choice of three payment dates: the 5th, 15th or 25th.

Meanwhile, all firms which pay business rates will have to stump up even earlier, on the first of the month. Around 2,700 companies, some 53 per cent, will feel the change.

Councillors say the plans will save money, give them more time to bring in arrears, and meet Government collection targets.

Bringing in money earlier will earn the local authority at least £94,400 a year.