MARLOW Town Council has announced it will not increase council tax for next year after setting out its a budget for 2013/14.

For the fourth year running, councillors have agreed to freeze levels for its share of the tax received from residents.

But though the precept from the town council is not set to go up, Bucks County Council and Wycombe District Council are yet to announce their budgets, with rises looking likely.

Cllr and Deputy Mayor Bob Johnson, chairman of MTC’s Resources Committee, said: “The Budget-setting process this year has been a major challenge, as we continue to seek improved and new services against a background of ever-stretching resources.

“However, I’m delighted that our Vision ideals will continue to be supported during 2014, and that we can maintain a flexible and functioning budget at nil increase, enabling us to do a good job for four years in a row.

“We have a fantastic town already and this is a budget full of positivity and town improvements – as well as a realistic eye to the future.”

The town council is the lowest of the three tiers of local government, and is responsible for areas including recreation grounds, civic events, street furniture and allotments.

It also acts as a consultee on planning applications submitted in the town.

To balance the books in future, members intend to drive income through sponsorship and increase efficiency through the use of voluntary support.

The ‘Vision for Marlow’ is one of the key areas where Marlow Town Council will focus its work in the coming year, with priorities set for the environment, planning, culture, sustainability and environment.

The new tax year begins on April 1.