A BUDGET to "boost Otley's economy and environment" has been unanimously backed by Town Councillors.

The Policy and Resources committee supported a revised version of proposals that were drawn up by the previous, Labour-led administration - back in January - when it met this week.

The new package foresees a spend of £369,100, covered by a precept of £291,983 plus other income, along with £22,350 from reserves.

Money has been allocated for several new areas including:

*Projects to boost trade and tourism, including a Tour de France legacy event

*Action to tackle dog fouling, improve 'streetscenes' and develop safe cycle routes

*Support for this year's Otley Folk Festival, and a feasibility study into how Otley can become more energy self-sufficient.

Otley Town Council Chairman Councillor Ray Georgeson (Lib Dem, Danefield) said: "Approval of the revised budget is an important next step in the delivery of our Vision for Otley.

"The hard work continues with committees and working parties eager to crack on and make a real difference to our town.

"Our commitment to collaborate is strong, and we welcome ideas and contributions from the community.

"Our plans will boost Otley's economy and environment and strengthen our community.

"We have taken a measured and pragmatic approach to the budget, eliminating unrealistic income projections - from the toilets, for example - and drawing carefully from reserves to support the clear project proposals set out in our manifesto, upon which we were elected."

Turning to the support for the Folk Festival, he added: "We are putting the Town Council back where it should be - squarely and strategically in support of the festival as a major community and cultural contribution to the life of the town, and one that draws in many visitors and supports the economy.

"Together, we will make an extra effort this year to decorate the town and really bring a festival feel on to the streets, as well as in the music venues."

All 19 councillors present on Monday, comprising 17 Lib Dems, one Green and one Independent, approved the plans.

Carl Morris from Otley's Labour Party meanwhile, which lost all its seats in May, welcomed much of the budget. He said: "There are some good initiatives that I absolutely welcome.

"I'm particularly pleased to see the new council continuing the work to make the town council more accessible, transparent and inclusive - this was a big part of what we did with projects like Otley Core and Voice Your Choice.

"However, I am a little annoyed by the sudden admission from the Lib Dems that the council finances are healthy.

"Over the last four years we were constantly attacked for apparently 'overspending' and running down savings.

"Now the Lib Dems have taken control they've suddenly admitted there is plenty of money, and increased spending for their own projects."