That's the pledge from Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council, whose budget has been approved this week.

The local authority has also set out plans to put £12 million into providing more 'affordable' housing, and another £12m will be used to improve the council's existing housing stock.

Councillors say this comes despite a further reduction in government funding - a cumulative 64 percent cut since 2010.    

As result, they've agreed to raise the average Band D council tax bill by just over £5 (2.5%) to £211.77 per year.

Councillor Duncan Bell, Executive Member for Resources, said: "We face tough financial choices - as do councils everywhere. It is always difficult to raise council tax, but this year it will be supported by our reserves to help close the budget gap.

"Overall, this budget puts us in a good position to continue providing value for money for local taxpayers and protect the services that people rely on every day.

"We're also investing millions to deliver on projects we know residents want to see: better town centres, neighbourhoods and leisure facilities."