FIRE chiefs are considering a move to increase their share of council tax by 2.99 per cent.

Cheshire Fire Authority (CFA) had already consulted the public on plans to increase tax by 1.99 per cent, but now the Government is allowing it to raise that by up to three per cent.

An increase of 2.99 per cent for 2018-19 would see the precept rise by £2.19 to £75.48 for a Band D household, while a 1.99 per cent rise would represent an increase of £1.46, to £74.75 for a Band D property.

The CFA has now launched a consultation on both proposals to increase the precept, before meeting to discuss a possible rise on Wednesday, February 14.

Paul Hancock, chief fire officer, said: "The CFA, like other public sector bodies, used to receive an annual capital grant from the Government.

"Since 2014 the authority has not received an annual capital grant and it seems extremely unlikely that such a grant will be reintroduced under the current financial constraints.

"This means that the CFA has to look at other ways to balance the budget and ensure the safety of the residents of Cheshire.

"Please let us know what you think about proposing to increase CFA's share of council tax by 2.99% in 2018/19, we welcome your views."

The consultation will close on Monday, February 12.

Residents can have their say by visiting cheshirefire.gov.uk/home/cheshire-fire-authority-201819-council-tax-precept-consultation