If the increase goes ahead properties at Band D level are facing the prospect of paying an additional five pence per week in West Norfolk Council's share of the bill, an annual increase of £2.64.

The below-inflation rise could be the first increase by the council in three years and will be used to bridge the gap of a perceived £800,000 shortfall for the forthcoming year.

The increase comes well below the national average and is believed to be one of the lowest in the county while also falling short of the inflation rate of four per cent.

After announcing details of the proposed rise last week, council leader Cllr Nick Daubney said he was determined to maintain quality services while pressing ahead with ambitious regeneration plans for the borough.

He added: "The first and most important thing for us was to continue running the council on a tight financial rein with a council tax at or below inflation.

"We will continue weekly collections of household waste. We have become one of the few who continue with it as we know it is important to local people and it will continue as promised.

"We will continue our campaign to regenerate Lynn as the major economic driver of West Norfolk and continue to enhance strong links with Hunstanton and Downham.

"We have delivered on our promise to increase at or below inflation and we will continue to deliver a high-quality standard of services."

After receiving a Government grant of £14.7 million, a figure which fell £300,000 short of what was anticipated, the council is facing a significant shortfall for the coming year as it battles with rising fuel costs, inflation rates and other costs.

As well as proposing a 2.5 per cent tax rise council members will also be asked to consider further savings by backing a modest reduction in staff numbers, which will hopefully be covered through natural wastage.
Bosses hope to lose five positions from the current 655-strong workforce.

Another area where savings could be made is through the privatisation of pest control services, an idea which is currently under investigation by the council.

Tax payers are also facing a nine per cent increase in the amount they pay to Norfolk Police Authority, with an extra £15 a year at Band D level, while Norfolk County Council hopes to introduce a 3.75 per cent rise, which will see Band D properties paying an additional £39.42 a year.

For people living in the villages individual parish precepts will also have to be added to total their bill.