MEMBERS of all political parties have welcomed a proposed budget which will see the average council tax bill of Bromsgrove and Droitwich Spa's householders rise by more than £50.

The move by Worcestershire County Council's Conservative group, which has been described as "brave", is designed to give priority to the work of schools and improve services for older people.

The 2002/2003 budget was presented at a cabinet meeting at Worcester's County Hall on Tuesday, December 18 and has since been given cross-party approval.

Outlined in the budget plans is priority given to the work of schools and supporting the raising standards, strengthening the social services budget with increased emphasis on services for older people, and action to prevent youngsters being taken into care for long periods unless in exceptional circumstances.

Also included are proposals for accelerating the restoration and improvement of the county's roads, investment in information and communications technology and raising library standards.

The authority's Labour leader, Cllr Peter Pinfield (Droitwich Town) said: "This is a very positive budget. It goes above the rate of inflation set by the Government but I think the people of Worcestershire are prepared to pay that little bit extra for their services.

"People will see an improvement.

"I believe Conservatives have been brave with these proposals."

The budgets suggests the authority's share of the council tax should rise by 7.9 per cent depending on finals Government allocations and local budget calculations.

It represents an increase of around £53.14 for a Band D property.

The proposals will now go out for consultation among the council's various panels and outside interested agencies, before full council makes a decision on February 21.

Liberal democrat leader Cllr Tom Wells (Powick) said: "I applaud this effort to reach a degree of consensus and thank the Conservative Group for continuing the work of the previous administration."