RESIDENTS living in north Worcestershire are being invited to pass comment on councillors' spending plans.

Businesses in the Wyre Forest District have been asked to contribute too as the authority sets its budget for 2005/06.

Leaders plan to propose spending £12.5m and raise council tax by 3.94 per cent -the lowest increase for 10 years.

While maintaining or improving current service, priorities for the 2005/06 budget include keeping open Bewdley Museum and Stourport Community Centre, helping build a six-screen cinema, offer more town centre parking in Kidderminster and working with housing associations to provide additional social housing.

Residents and businesses can provide their views on the budget plans at a council meeting on Thursday, February 3, by letter or e-mail.