MORE ‘bang for taxpayer’s buck’ in the new Cheshire West and Chester authority is being celebrated by the Government.

Local government minister John Healey has praised news that, despite the shake-up, the council tax increase will be just 1.8% compared to the national rise of 2.6%.

He said: “Especially in today’s tough times, councils need to do all they can to lift financial pressures for their residents and businesses, but also to continue providing the quality services their communities increasingly rely on.

“Cheshire West and Chester’s efforts to keep council tax increases down is welcome news and one of the first direct results of the new council’s determination to deliver for their residents.’’