South Yorkshire Times, March 7th, 1970
Rate Reduction For Conisbro’
Conisbrough Urban Council were this week able to announce a rate reduction of 6d. in the pound for householders in the district despite an expected spending of half a million pounds on the re-development of Denaby.
Coun. George Cheshire, Chair of the Finance Committee, commented “It is not our intention to sacrifice the slum clearance and re-development of Denaby on the altar of finance.”
Down A Penny
Coun. Cheshire announced that the rate for domestic properties would be down 6s. to 11s.11d. in the pound and mixed properties down 4d. to 12. 9d. in the pound. The general rate will be 13s. 7d. in the pound – a reduction of 1d.
Said Coun. Cheshire “the council enters the 70’s with their finances in a strong position. I believe this budget proves we have administered and intend to continue to administer our affairs efficiently and at a reasonable cost to the ratepayer.”
The council will have spent £184.109 in the current year, and estimate spending £202.138 in the coming year. There will also be a rise in capital expenditure of up to £500.000 on the Bolton Street re-development scheme in Denaby in 1970-71.
Despite Increase
County Coun. Jim Prendergast, at a time when prices are rising, wage claims granted, and everyone expecting an increase in the rates, Conisbrough is able to announce this reduction despite an increase in expenditure.
“It is an achievement we should all be proud of.”
Coun. Prendergast attributed the reduction to good housekeeping, the capital works loan scheme, and the increase in the government’s support grant.