Rates will therefore remain at the current 2020/21 levels.

The decision to freeze Council Tax at 2020/21 levels was possible due to equivalent funding provided by the Scottish Government to alleviate a shortfall in the council’s budget, which would otherwise have been met through applying an increase to Council Tax rates.

Councillor Matthew Reiss, vice chair of the corporate resources committee, said: “It is essential that we help to protect low income families and household incomes within Highland and receipt of Scottish Government funding this year means that we can freeze Council Tax rates for the new financial year.

“Despite this freeze, I understand that many individuals continue to face on-going financial pressures as a result of the pandemic. I would therefore encourage Highland residents to check if they are entitled to any financial assistance – particularly Council Tax Reduction – in order to reduce bills and maximise household income.”

Lead budget spokesperson for the Opposition, Councillor Ian Cockburn added: “I am pleased that members of the committee successfully reached agreement to allow this budget to be passed. I commend the members and officers who were involved in the task of preparing these proposals for their considerable efforts – this is undoubtedly a robust budget with the best intentions for our local communities and residents at its heart.

“The council remains committed to supporting Highland residents and businesses recover from the impact of this crisis through continued investment in communities and the local economy.”