EAST Ayrshire residents could be set for a five per cent jump in Council Tax.

It is believed officials are ready to recommend the maximum council tax rise of 4.79 per cent.

It would see Band A property households pay about £40 more a year with Band H shelling out an extra £148.

Councillors are due to vote on the potential council tax hike on February 28 as the council looks to find savings for this year’s budget.

The move comes after finance secretary Derek Mackay, pictured, agreed to lift the three per cent cap.

The council said it would not make any compulsory redudancies and most scrimping would be taken through ‘management actions.’

East Ayrshire Council is holding a consultation on its proposals.

People have the chance to have their say until February 12 through community groups and by email at transformationteam@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

Pop-up events are due to take place today at Dalmellington Area Centre from 12 noon to 2pm and on Tuesday, February 12 at the Tesco superstore in Galston from 4pm to 6pm.

Cutting council offices, moving services online and reducing staff levels are part of a drive to reduce costs over the long-term.

The council has to slash its budget by £32 million over the next three years.