ALTON Town Council looks set to raise a precept of £442,000 for the year 2011/2012 which, allowing for a small growth in housing stock, will maintain the current level.

The decision is in line with Government direction to county and district councils to freeze council tax for 2011/2012, with guidance to town and parish councils "to exercise restraint and make sure no council taxpayer faces an increased bill".

For full story, see this week's Alton Herald.