Householders in Sandwell will face a one per cent rise in council tax from April, the lowest in the local authority’s history.

The rise is also the lowest in the Black Country. The closest is neighbouring borough Dudley where a 1.5 per cent rise is planned.

The move was announced by finance chief Councillor Steve Eling last night.

He said it could be afforded because of efficiency savings, realised without any compulsory redundancies or cutting front line services.

He said:“On top of that they are getting two new swimming pools and free bulky waste collections for people aged over 65.”

He added: “I don’t know where this puts us in terms of the whole country but I suspect we are very close to the bottom.

“I knew it would be 1.4 per cent or below and I was just waiting on the final figures from the fire and police as to what they were asking.

“They came in this week and I am pleased we have been able to work this out.”

Last year bills went up by 1.96 per cent, the lowest increase in the 35 years since Sandwell Council was formed, leading to an increase for the average Band D property owner of £25 for the year.

This year, the rise equates to around 21 pence a week for Band B properties, of which there are most in Sandwell.

It will go to the ruling cabinet for approval next Wednesday before being presented to the full council on March 2.

It will come into force on April 1.