By Dean Kilpatrick, local democracy reporter

Council tax bills in Medway will increase by nearly 6% from April, it has been confirmed.

Councillors voted through Medway Council’s 2018/19 budget last night, despite a long and heated debate among members over a range of issues including frontline services, housing, and the condition of roads.

Medway Council’s share of council tax will increase by the maximum level allowed without activating a referendum – on top of a social care precept – meaning bills will rise by a total of 5.994%.

Labour accused the Conservative administration of showing "complete disregard" to residents, but were told the hikes were necessary to protect services and for ongoing investment into the Towns.

Cllr Alan Jarrett, Medway Council leader, said: "In deciding on the level of (council) tax, we have to reach a balance about service delivery and increases.

"Yes, our increase in council tax is the highest in Kent, but the increase of around £1.50 a week for Band D properties still reflects value for money."

Cllr Jarrett reversed the council's decision to cut its funding of the Royal Volunteer Service, instead giving it a £17,500 "stay of execution" for six months.

Before the meeting there had been protests outside St George's Centre in Chatham, where volunteers and users of the charity, which helps older people across Britain, passionately chanted “save our centre” amid plans to cut its £35,000 of funding.

In addition, Cllr Jarrett outlined plans to invest in four new festivals, continued free parking at Christmas, and highways improvements.

Medway Council also set out its intention to raise prices for services they provide – ranging from parking permits to bereavement fees.

Motorists will see above-inflation increases for the majority of parking permits, with resident (7.14% increase), special business (6.67% increase), late night (5.71% increase) and commuter (up to 3.23% increase) among the highest.

Fees and charges for burial and cremation services would increase by 7% which, according to the council’s own diversity impact assessment, will hit elderly people the most.

Cllr Vince Maple, Medway Labour leader, told the meeting: "This year, we will see a dramatic increase in costs impacting on families who have lost loved ones.

"These are the decisions that make me question this council's priorities."

And opposition councillors also accused the Conservatives of hitting people in the pocket, while cutting services – highlighting recent changes to Sure Start, libaries and other servies.

Ukip also voted against the budget.