OPPOSITION leaders have raised concerns about the above-average council tax rise announced as part of the latest Southend Council budget.

Tory leader Nigel Holdcroft announced this week council tax would increase by 3.95 per cent for 2010-11, more than double the rate of inflation.

In a joint statement, the leaders of the council’s Liberal Democrat, Inde-pendent and Labour groups said they welcomed the additional resources promised for key services such as social care and mental health.

But Lib Dem leader Graham Longley said: “At a time when incomes are being severely restricted, an inflationary-busting council tax, more than twice the rate of inflation, is unacceptable.”

Independent leader Martin Terry said: “Yet another annual increase of 3.95 per cent reflects nine years of Tory financial mismanagement, resulting in more cuts to services to the residents and businesses in the borough.”

David Norman, Labour, added: “There is no doubt the next few years will be challenging ones for public finances.”

Mr Holdcroft said: “While any increase in tax is clearly undesirable, the challenging economic conditions, the need to find substantial savings and, at the same time, invest in essential services, means an increase in council tax is unavoidable.”