The policing precept is set to rise by 1.99 per cent, following approval by the Essex Police and Crime Panel.

Police and Crime Commissioner Nick Alston proposed the increase in the precept, which is the portion of council tax used to fund policing and community safety, at a meeting yesterday (Thursday).

This represents a rise of about six pence per week for a Band D property. The increase was approved by eleven votes to four.

Mr Alston said: “The Police and Crime Panel considered my proposal to increase the portion of council tax used to fund policing by just under two per cent, and asked a number of rigorous questions.

“I welcome their scrutiny, which is an important part of ensuring that major decisions about the policing of our county are conducted openly and transparently. I also welcome their decision to approve the proposal.”

He added: “The independent inspectorate has found that Essex Police is one of the leanest and most efficient forces in the country, and we pay less in council tax for our policing than almost any other county. Whilst I regret having to seek this increase in the precept, I believe - facing significant cuts in central government funding - it is the responsible thing to do to help preserve strong and effective policing in Essex.”