Council tax frozen for seventh year running as spending plans for year approved by councillors

Projects that help at community level avoid council spending squeeze. But no guarantees beyond 2013

Social care has already been hit hard by the Coalition Government’s spending squeeze and plans for more cuts risk making life intolerable for many needy pensioners

The Town Hall faces a funding shortfall of £60 million over the next three years – even if it raises council tax by 2.5% per year

Hackney councillors are accused of taking the easy option and making life harder for residents

Council budget frustration sparks direct action by anti-cuts campaigners

Spending plans for the year were approved by councillors last night as campaigners slammed the government-imposed cuts

The Town Hall is setting its finances for the coming year in the face of calls to reject government-enforced reductions

5.30pm Wednesday 2 March 2011, outside Hackney Town Hall

Hundreds demonstrated on Saturday over government’s decision to reduce the grant it provides to local councils