SOMERSET households will see an increase in the money they pay to Avon and Somerset Police from April.

The police and crime panel met yesterday (February 4) to approve the Police and Crime Commissioner’s (PCC) proposed 5% increase in the council tax precept for policing.

This is the portion of council tax allocated to police services.

The increase will see a Band D property pay an additional £14 a year, equating to approximately £1.16 per month.

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PCC Clare Moody said the increase was essential to provide a quality service across the region and to protect improvements made in previous years.

The news of the increase comes the same week that Somerset Council was granted permission by the government to raise its share of council tax above the national cap of 5%, to 7.5%.

The PCC said the force is facing a funding gap this year.

Speaking after the meeting, the chair of the panel, councillor Heather Shearer said the money would be used to strengthen neighbourhood policing.

“We recognise that it is vital for the police force to be financially supported and that it is a very difficult time for many residents who are currently struggling with rising bills and the cost of living,” she said.

“During the meeting we made it clear that our approval is contingent on the delivery of the PCC’s police and crime plan, including strengthening neighbourhood policing.”

“This extra investment has to be used to make a tangible difference to positive outcomes and increasing public confidence, and we will continue to press for assurances around performance.

“There is a sizeable funding gap again this year so achieving a better funding deal for policing from the government is integral to improving the service.

“The panel will judge the success of the commissioner’s plan on real outcomes and the information made available to us by her office.”