Harlow Council's proposed budget has been welcomed by local Liberal Democrat councillors, who say it will result in one of the lowest council tax increases in the country this year. Liberal Democrat leader Councillor Chris Millington says:

"Senior councillors from the ruling groups have played a major part in ensuring that money goes to high priority services, paid for by greater efficiencies elsewhere in the council.

The extra £100,000 to continue our programme of estate clean-ups will be very welcome, as will the provision of more litter bins and dog waste bins. Additional resources to tackle anti-social behaviour are another example of the commitment of Liberal Democrats to keep the promises we have made to local residents. We've managed to protect popular local services, and at the same time avoid excessive council tax increases.

This is a budget that reflects Liberal Democrat principles and priorities, and as such we fully support it."

Harlow Council sets its budget on Thursday 16 February.