The council has ruled out plans to hold a referendum on raising council tax by more than three per cent.

Green Party co-leader Adrian Ramsay told the BBC that he would support the Green-led administration for Brighton and Hove City Council if it chose to consider holding a referendum to increase council tax above the three per cent threshold.

However, council leader Phelim Mac Cafferty said the council would not seek to raise council tax above the cap due to the rising cost of living.

Cllr Mac Cafferty said: “The effective running of a city involves making difficult decisions. 

“As we await the Chancellor’s Fiscal Plan at the end of October, it is important that we keep sensible options on the table. However, I understand that an excessive increase in council tax would come at a time when the disastrous Conservative mini-budget is really hurting residents in the pocket, whether that’s their rent or mortgage increasing or the price of goods mushrooming.

“That is why, at this moment, we will not be seeking to increase council tax beyond the maximum of permitted by government, despite the fact that inflation is running over ten per cent.”

Cllr Mac Cafferty also said that the council is doing “all we can” to help those struggling with the cost of living, with the discount on council tax for residents on low incomes increased, despite cuts to council funding.

“We continue to provide hardship funds, welfare advice and increased funding for emergency white goods, such as fridges,” he said.

During the Green Party’s annual conference earlier this month, Green Party co-leader Adrian Ramsay told the BBC: “If local councillors find they need to increase council tax in order to pay for crucial services, then it’s right they should put forward that proposal.

“I’m not going to tell councillors they have to do that, but I think it’s right that it’s an option on the table.”

Those facing difficulty paying council tax bills are urged to contact Brighton and Hove City Council’s council tax team on 01273 291 291.

Residents can also access emergency help through the council’s community hub on 01273 293 117.