COUNCIL bosses are planning to increase council tax bills to address a drop in income caused by the coronavirus crisis.

Braintree Council is aiming to balance the books next year as estimates it will be left with an estimated shortfall of £350k as a result of the pandemic.

Bosses have had to contend with added costs caused by the crisis, such as supporting businesses and helping rough sleepers.

The council has also lost income due to a drop in car parking fees, planning applications and leisure management fees.

Despite receiving extra funding from the Government current predictions show there will be an estimated £359k shortfall at Causeway House.

It has been proposed the 2021 to 2022 budget, which was discussed in a meeting on Monday, will see a rise in council tax.

At this time, the hike is only a proposed increase and needs to be agreed by the full council first next month.

However, it would mean band D property would have an increase of 7p a week.

Car parking charges will remain frozen in the new financial year.

Council leader Graham Butland said: “This has been a particularly challenging year but we have worked hard to help support those most in need.

“This pandemic will have long lasting impacts on our communities and we are committed to helping the most vulnerable residents while also helping as many businesses get through the pandemic.”

Braintree Council insists its council tax bills remain among the lowest in Essex, despite the planned increase.

Finance boss David Bebb added: “Although we have received some money from central government, it does not cover the cost of the increased demand for council services or the cost of the extra things the Council is doing today that we weren’t last year.

“Thankfully after years of prudent financial management we are in a better position than most.

“It is important to us to help our communities through this difficult period.

“Covid-19 will have social impacts on all our communities for many years to come.”

Other authorities such as Essex County Council and the Essex Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner have yet to announce if they will increase council tax bills when the new financial year begins.