COUNCIL leaders in South Oxfordshire are promising residents they will cut its share of the council tax for the second year running.

But their neighbours in the Vale of White Horse District Council area are likely to face a two per cent increase for the district council section of the bill.

In South Oxfordshire, a Band D taxpayer will see the district council element of the total bill reducing from £120.64 to £117.62.

The council’s cabinet has not yet finalised its detailed spending plans for 2013/2014 but a reduction in council tax will be included when the budget is agreed next month.

David Dodds, SODC cabinet member for finance, said: “We have managed our finances well for many years.

“It is right and proper in these difficult times that we share the benefit of that prudent management with our residents.

“In monetary terms, the reduction is small but it shows our intent. “What particularly pleases me is that we can lower council tax while at the same time improving services.”

He added: “As part of the budget I will be introducing schemes to improve street cleaning and refurbish public toilets.”

Vale of White Horse District Council spokesman Gavin Walton said: “Officers are currently working towards a budget based on the previous agreement that council tax will rise by two per cent.

“However, this may change once a formal budget proposal has been put forward by the administration.”