An increase in council tax and free Sunday parking in certain locations have been agreed by the town's local authority.

Brentwood Borough Council approved a balanced budget and set council tax for the next financial year last Wednesday at Full Council (February 28).

An increase of 2.99% in the Brentwood Borough Council part of council tax was agreed for 2024/25, as was the introduction of free Sunday car parking in various places.

This means, for example, the charge of a Band D property rises by £6.12 a year to £210.70 per annum for the council's services, the council said.

William Hunter Way, Chatham Way and Town Hall car parks will be free on Sundays. People will also be able to park at Shenfield car parks without paying for up to three hours.

Councillor David Kendall, council finance chair, said: "This budget brings much needed stability to the Borough Council’s finances.

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"Our clear message to residents is that Brentwood Borough Council’s finances remain safe and we will continue to invest in the services that are important to them," Cllr Kendall added.

A team to tackle fly-tipping and reinforcing the commitment to provide a cinema at the Baytree Centre were also among budget agreements.