Council's budget will be discussed tonight

Chorley Council’s proposals include freezing council tax for the fifth year and investing £2.8m in services, including town centre improvements and free swimming for children during school holidays.

The council plans to invest in projects that will provide income and to allocate money to offset cuts made by Lancashire County Council.

Coun Peter Wilson, deputy leader, said: “The budget we are proposing has only been made possible thanks to good financial management and our plans to become less reliant on government grants by generating our own income through schemes such as the purchase of Market Walk shopping centre.”

Nearly 1,000 people took part in a consultation with “the vast majority” agreeing with priorities for investment.

Chorley’s Conservative group will put forward their own proposals, including alternative investments, efficiency savings and setting aside £5.3m over three years to address uncertainty.

Leader Coun Paul Leadbetter said: “Overall our budget provides a range of projects to promote and support everyone in Chorley and is proactive in considering the future financial challenges our council will face, by making savings now to avoid borrowing in the future.”