AN “unprecedented” four per cent reduction in council tax has been announced by the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead – making it one of the largest cuts nationwide.

It beats Hammersmith & Fulham, who have already announced a three per cent drop.

The decision affects residents in Cookham and Bisham.

The budget, agreed yesterday, means that the Band D council tax rate will fall by more than £41.

The Royal Borough's new Band D council tax rate for 2010/11 will be £995.73 It said 'efficiency savings' had allowed it to make the reduction.

These include introducing smart metering to save an estimated £70,000 in energy bills, relocating staff from rented offices to the town hall and renegotiating contracts for waste and recycling.

Cllr Richard Kellaway, who represents Cookham and Bisham and lead member for finance, said: "Our aim is to provide better services for less money and we have been able to achieve this unprecedented reduction by careful financial management.

“There is no magic wand - just meticulous scrutiny of our resources and making every penny work.

"Front line services are being protected but we have carried out a far-reaching restructure to make sure our back room support is as efficient as it can be.

“We are aiming to create a lean organisation that is fighting fit and able to maintain and improve the services our residents depend on every day of their lives."

Cllr David Burbage, council leader, said: "At a time when the country is struggling out of recession and everyone is feeling the pinch, I am delighted that we can announce this good news."