One Hampshire council is bucking the trend of council tax hikes by cutting bills for residents.

East Hampshire District Council voted to cut council tax by 2.6% for the 2017/2018 financial year.

The decision marks the second consecutive reduction for residents after a 2% reduction last year.

Before the move was voted on, council leader Cllr Ferris Cowper said: “We are proposing to reduce our council tax at a time when nearly all local authorities are increasing their charge by the maximum amount allowed by Government.”

In addition, the council has announced a commitment to lower council tax bills further next year.

Cllr Cowper added: “East Hampshire District Council has stated its ambition to bring council tax down to zero and is committed to making itself free from reliance on Government grant. This latest cut, and the promise to make further tax cuts next year, backs up this commitment with positive action.

“We have shown it is possible for councils to make their own money, without increasing the tax burden on their residents and without cutting services.”

The council said it has been able to make the cut thanks to the success of its business strategies and its property investments.

The decision means the council’s share of council tax for a Band D property will be £131.11, down from £134.55.