UK councils

The news of six-figure payouts to town hall officials comes as many councils are struggling to balance their budgets and keep key services running.

The vote follows the appointment of commissioners by the government to scrutinise the council’s finances and budget plans.

The largest local authority in Europe, Birmingham Council, was taken over by government-appointed commissioners after it had effectively gone bankrupt.

Brighton and Hove residents have been raising concerns about the accessibility of streets and pavements, affected by a weed infestation.