A new council tax rate increase of 4.5% has been set

The increase, effective from 1 April, comes after previous talks stalled when Labour and Conservative councillors failed to reach agreement.

The rise means the average Band D council tax will rise from �1,149 a year to �1,201 - an increase of �52.

Council leader Corrie McChord defended the move, but a Tory councillor said budget concerns were not addressed.

The rise will result in a cut to frontline services including play projects, winter gritting and community care equipment budgets to generate �1.8m savings, the council said.

Difficult policy decisions have been taken to deliver this council tax increase at this level Corrie McChord Stirling Council leader

Mr McChord said: "Difficult policy decisions have been taken to deliver this council tax increase at this level.

"The finance settlement is very difficult for the next two years and further savings will be required."

Service cuts

"The council has produced a budget which allows for service improvements appropriate for a growing population and a better quality of life for all our people."

Conservative councillor Paul Nelson said he was disappointed the Labour administration had not listened to Tory budget concerns.

"It's imposing cuts to services while increasing council tax by 4.5%," he added.

The Conservative opposition walked out on a previous meeting to set the new council tax rate and boycotted another.

The Labour administration had insufficient numbers to push through its budget plans after the death of one of its councillors.