Suffolk's police and crime commissioner has announced plans for an increase in the policing element of council tax to add £2.9m to the constabulary's budget in the next financial year.

Tim Passmore believes a 6.8pc increase is necessary to help maintain police visibility, invest in technology and tackle issues such as drug misuse and youth gang violence.

The proposed precept will add an average of £12-a-year per household, increasing the policing element of council tax in Suffolk from £176.85 to £188.82 per year in 2018/19.

County/district/borough and parish elements also have to be added to the council tax bills before they are delivered to people's homes.

Mr Passmore said: 'In setting the precept I understand the impact that this increase will have on residents and it has not been an easy decision but I really have no option if we are going to maintain policing in the county.'

The police chief revealed he is 'very disappointed' with policing minister Nick Hurd's decision 'not to look at a fairer funding formula'.

He added: 'The government's decision to allow PCC's to increase the police precept has placed the burden directly on the Suffolk taxpayer.

'My decision to raise the precept to the maximum amount of £12 per year for a band D household will provide around £2.9million extra for next year.

'However, as the government grant of £69.5m for next year is exactly the same this year – this means the constabulary will still need to make savings.'

Mr Passmore said the extra funding will provide further investment in technology to help tackle the changing profile of criminality and improve the proactive capability of the constabulary.

It will also help to improve emergency response and enhance the effectiveness of the Safer Neighbourhood Teams.

In a survey conducted to gage public opinion towards an increase 66pc of those who took part said they were prepared to accept a £12 increase.

Mr Passmore will present his precept proposal to the Police and Crime Panel meeting at Suffolk County Council's headquarters on Friday, January 26.

The meeting starts at 10.30am and is open to the public to attend.