MORE cash for the environment, a freeze on leisure spending and a review of community safety are key elements in Sedgefield Borough Council's budget.

The council set its budget for next year and agreed a 6.5 per cent council tax rise.

Brian Allen, the borough's director of resources, said the figures had been drawn up following extensive consultation and people said their priority was a 'cleaner and greener' environment.

As a result, the environment budget has been increased by eight per cent, in real terms.

To counter this, the culture and recreation budget has been frozen for the second year.

But Mr Allen said no services had been cut and the budget still included provision for the National Railway Museum at Shildon.

Community safety is also high on the agenda, identified as a second priority, and although no extra money is available, a review is being undertaken.

Recommending the budget for approval, council leader Bob Fleming said: "Preparation has been tough. I believe we have the right balance between increased spending on one hand and increased council tax on the other.

The combined effect of the changes, which also includes charges by Durham County Council, Police Authority, Fire Authority and parish councils, mean council tax payers in Sedgefield will pay on average an extra 6.3 per cent next year.