Council tax could rise by 3.99 per cent next year as part of budget proposals for the town.

The council’s draft budget for 2020/21 was approved for consultation last night and includes plans for a string of investments as well as £33 million of savings.

Reading Borough Council’s (RBC) Policy committee approved the draft budget and Medium-Term Financial Strategy (MTFS) for consultation ahead of ratification in February.

Councillor Jason Brock, leader of the council, said: “It is very unusual of us to have a draft budget at this time of year but a fantastic thing that we do because it allows us a chance for two months of scrutiny.

“It is quite right and proper that the budget is subject to that scrutiny so that it can develop and improve.

“This is an ambitious budget and we should all take a moment to acknowledge the hard work that has gone in to ensure we are in a position where we can set an ambitious budget.

“In years gone by it was very difficult to set a balanced budget at all but here we are not only able to protect in our services but able to invest in our services.

“We are able to affirm our commitment to the environment and produce efficiency savings that do not diminish the service the public receives.”

RBC’s draft budget is normally released in February, where councillors vote on whether to ratify it, but this year the council have decided to consult the public in advance.

The proposed 3.99 per cent increase to council tax on includes 2 per cent to fund adult social care.

Discounts and exemptions from council tax for care leavers are also included in the proposals, which was praised by Cllr White.

Green Party group leader councillor Rob White approved the proposal for consultation but slammed the necessity to cut services “inflicted by the Conservatives” and said greater changes are needed to tackle the climate emergency.

Lib Dem councillor Ricky Duveen said the council needs to do more demonstrate what it is doing to tackle the climate emergency.

Cllr Brock responded: “Some colleagues need to get real. This council is one of the very best performing in the country in terms of its environmental commitments and the reduction of the carbon footprint in Reading.

“This budget has investment in things that will further improve the environment in Reading.”

The Conservative opposition abstained from voting as they wish to reserve their opinion till February, when the committee will decide whether to ratify the budget.