Tax hike will fund bobbies

Proposals would see a further 100 frontline officers, 56 more PCSOs and additional support staff across Notts.

The police authority says the option of a 3.99 per cent rise in the police’s proportion of the council tax bill in 2012-13 will only mean a ‘few pence a week more’ for residents.

Vice-chair of the authority and county councillor for Worksop East Glynn Gilfoyle said the move would help protect local communities.

“Notts residents have consistently told us that they want to see a stronger police presence which has helped to develop our thoughts,” he added. “We believe that although this plan represents a small additional cost to hard working families, it will help to protect local communities and safeguard our ability to detect more crime in the future.”

Notts Police must save a further £11.6m in 2012-13 following reduction in Government funding.

The proposals would see the council tax bill on a Band D property increase from £160.11 to £166.50. Band A or Band B properties would pay an extra £4.26 per year and £4.97 per year, respectively.

Notts Police Authority chairman Jon Collins said his priority is to make Notts safer.

“So far, we’ve limited the impact of any cuts on the frontline, which has helped to protect performance,” he said.

“It is vital we act now if we are to secure our future success.”

To have your say visit www.nottspa.org.