People paying their council tax or business rates by monthly instalments will have more flexible choices from next year.

The change is being introduced by Cherwell District Council to help families and local businesses plan their finances better during difficult times ahead. In future they will be able to choose between four different direct debit payment dates so this can be scheduled to fit in with other regular bills.

"Almost three-quarters of people have already chosen direct debit as the most convenient way to pay their council tax. Now as more people are looking to manage their money more carefully we are making it even easier and, as far as we can, less painful," said Cllr James Macnamara, Cherwell's resources portfolio holder.

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Local shopkeepers and other small businesses, who don't get any choice of date at the moment, are expected to find the change particularly beneficial. At the moment just over half pay their business rates by direct debit and the council hopes the added flexibility will increase this figure.

"I know, from painful experience as a finance director, that planning cash flow is a major issue for all businesses, especially during a recession. That's why we have pledged to pay all our bills within 14 days and we are offering more flexible terms for people paying us," said Cllr Macnamara.

"We are constantly looking for ways to provide better value for money and to support Cherwell as a district of opportunity. This is another example."

(CD/JM)