COUNCIL taxpayers in North Yorkshire will have to pay 11.5 per cent more to the county authority, it was confirmed yesterday.

The rise in the county council precept will mean an extra £84 a year on a Band D property, which presently stands at £733.

However, the authority said that despite the rise it remains one of the lowest figures for shire counties.

It stands 27th out of 34 shire counties for its level of council tax, and could fall further when final figures are fixed.

Latest surveys show that council tax rises across England will range from eight per cent to 20 per cent, with a national average of between 13 and 14 per cent. For an average Band D property the charges will range from £797 to £1,030.

County council leader John Weighell said: "During our extensive consultation exercise, which for the first time included an online questionnaire, we have listened carefully to what people have said.

"They have given us a clear message that they don't want services cut. I can assure everyone that value for money and high-quality services remain at the heart of our approach."