COUNCIL tax increases in Rossendale could be as little as 2.2 per cent the lowest to be announced in Lancashire so far.

The borough's budget proposals will be discussed at a council meeting on Thursday, February 23, when the increase is set to be decided on.

And councillors hope to be able to keep the rise low after receiving a four per cent increase in its government grant, from £5.6million to £5.9million.

But council leaders have also said the low rises in line with inflation are a result of prudent financial management.

Councillor Duncan Ruddick, leader of Rossendale Council, said: "For too long Rossendale Borough Council has been criticised for providing poor levels of service at high cost to local people.

"Our finances are back in a sound position with reserves built up to acceptable levels. So this year we only need to increase council tax in line with inflation which equates to less than 10p a week for those living in typical band D properties."