BAND D households in Bovey Tracey and Heathfield are being asked for an extra 62p per week to help cover unavoidable costs so the town council can stay in good shape for the future.

The award-winning authority needs extra funds to boost its staff team at a time when the reorganisation of local government could mean more work coming its way.

Lottery funding for certain roles also ceases next month and reserves were budgeted for use this year, to keep increases as low as possible.

An unexpected cost has been clearing last year’s unauthorised camp in Mill Marsh Park and the subsequent improved security at green spaces.

Members of Full Council agreed to take the annual Band D Council Tax bill from £102.53 to £134.68.

Deputy Mayor Cllr Martyn Evans said increases were never the preferred option but to ignore realities would only come back to haunt the community with even steeper rises in future.

‘The precept is the only only real source of income for town and parish councils and we’re asking households in Bovey Tracey and Heathfield to contribute not even half the cost of a tea or coffee,’ he said.

‘Local Government Reorganisation could result in Bovey Tracey Town Council taking on some roles and responsibilities that the county and district are currently liable for.

‘How could we do that if we hadn’t budgeted for the staff we’d need?

‘And there’s the cost of keeping our much-loved open spaces secure from unauthorised and frankly unpleasant encampments, the money has to be found somewhere.

‘We also need to put some cash into the reserves as running anywhere near empty in uncertain times would amount to a gross dereliction of duty.

‘We appreciate the cost of living continues to challenge many households but it’s our duty to ensure that the parish of Bovey Tracey and Heathfield has the financial security to deliver services the public needs.’