COUNCIL bosses are planning to freeze council tax for the sixth year in a row.

Colchester Council has not increased its share of council tax since 2010.

In early projections for 2016/17, finance bosses have set out a “desire” to continue the council tax freeze.

The council has been able to offset any losses of not increasing the charge because the Government has supported local authorities who choose to freeze council tax with a grant. However, it is not known if that funding will continue into next year.

The move has been put forward in papers due to go to Colchester Council cabinet on Wednesday.

Paul Smith, Colchester Council leader, said: “We recognise that for many people in Colchester, council tax is the largest expense.

“Council tax is a big bill for people and we want to do what we can to help.”

Mr Smith also set out how the council plans to spend more than £2million in New Homes Bonus cash.

The council has more than £4million in the bank from the Government.

And £2million of that will be used to prop up the budget and £2.2million will be made available for one-off community projects.

Mr Smith added: “Everyone is feeling the effects of development in Colchester and we want residents to see some benefits from it.”

The council leader said he hoped projects such as playgrounds and picnic areas will be put forward as possible projects.

About £500,000 has already been allocated to a scheme which will see the Roman Wall, in Priory Street, opened up to the public with interpretation boards and night time lighting.