Hopes of reducing an Isle of Wight town council's 'eyewatering' precept increase have been scrapped.

Following a meeting last month, Sandown residents are in for a 49.9 per cent town council tax precept rise — which would see bills increase an average of £72.70 a year.

Sandown Town Councillors, Debbie Andre and Emily Brothers, believed the decision was never given formal consent at the meeting and the council had followed an incorrect process — although other members disputed that.

An extraordinary meeting of the town council was called to meet in two weeks' time, with the support of Cllrs Sue Betts and Heather Humby, to determine the budget with a new vote.

In a joint statement, released yesterday (Wednesday) from Cllrs Andre and Brothers, they announced the meeting has now been cancelled as Cllr Betts had withdrawn her support which meant the budget could not be reconsidered.

Posting on her Facebook page, Cllr Betts said she had done a thorough investigation of policies, procedures, standing orders and taken advice and was satisfied there was no need to take the matter further.

Cllrs Andre and Brothers said their intention was to try to reduce the amount residents paid, to as little as possible, instead of the near 50 per cent rise.

Band D households will now pay £218.40 a year towards Sandown Town Council, on top of fees for the Isle of Wight Council, police and fire services.

They said: "We are extremely disappointed our fellow Sandown Town Councillors have countenanced such a financial burden on residents.

"This includes a £500,000 loan for two toilet blocks, one Sandown Town Council doesn’t even own, whilst there is a surplus of over £200,000 in the bank."

Both councillors said they will continue to lobby for 'good governance and responsible budgets' as the cost of living crisis continues.

Last year Band D ratepayers paid £145.70 towards the town council.

Now funds have been set aside for CCTV installation, beach safety schemes and replacement decorative lighting.

Financial support to Sandown Carnival Association has been reduced from £5,000 to £2,000 with support for the Sandown and Shanklin Independent Lifeboat remaining at £2,000.