BOURNEMOUTH councillors have backed an increase in council tax for the first time in six years.

The move follows a further reduction in government grant of £7.6 million in 2016/17, coupled with the removal of the council tax freeze grant.

It must be approved by a full council before it can be put in place.

If the increase is given the green light at that time, those living in a Band D property may face an increase of 3.99 per cent - £49.59 per year.

This would take the amount from £1,243.71 per year in 2015/16 to £1,293.30 in 2016/17.

The increase will take in a 1.99 per cent rise in general council tax and an additional two per cent ring fenced for adult social care.

It would help to raise more than £3m in council tax revenue.

Councillors have also earmarked additional funds to help tackle anti-social behaviour, rough sleeping and begging in the town centre.

There would be an additional £250k for the road rescue fund to deal with potholes.

Planning enforcement has been allocated some additional funding to protect the interests of local homeowners and businesses.

Council leader Cllr John Beesley said: “Despite the latest cuts to our finances we are determined to generate more income than ever before so that we can protect essential frontline services valued by our residents."