SIR - What a surprise that the Telegraph & Argus reveals that our council tax could increase by almost six per cent (Jan 13). If the local authority gives the go-ahead it will be fastest thing our council has ever decided on.

I fear most of the rise will go on wage rises. It will not improve services, nor will it save jobs being lost. What it will do, no doubt, is maintain the number of councillors we have and don't need.

Surely the time has come to have a good look at their numbers and reduce them? For most of our councillors this has become a full-time job, whereas years ago it was done merely for expenses. It is time they were reduced and their pet projects stopped.

As for council 'services' they are minimal nowadays any way.

The council has reduced our city to a virtual ghost town with the only places being visited the Broadway shopping centre and the pond in the park which is only used in summer.

So come on, make the cut the city needs and cut the amount of councillors.

B Towell, Bromford Road, East Bowling