A £500,000 pot for Clitheroe Castle ground improvements and £1 million for new projects across the Ribble Valley form part of the borough’s new approved budget.

Ruling Tories saw budget plans for the next 12 months approved with support from others including independents and Liberal Democrats.

Councillors said the castle and grounds enhancements are key priorities for tourism, events and the local economy.

Opposition Labour, Green and new Progressive Liberal councillors put forward an alternative budget but failed to win enough votes.

Borough leader Cllr Stephen Atkinson, said the council's finances were in good shape despite many challenges and other councils facing financial emergencies.

He said: “We have low debt, the lowest council tax in Lancashire, among the lowest in the country, and £17m in reserves and balances.

"We know there are future challenges We need to protect our savings plans and address any future funding gaps.”

One key plan is a £1m Ribble Valley Golden Jubilee Fund this year, marking 50 years since the borough's creation in 1974, which will be open to any councillor or political group.

Cllr Atkinson criticised Labour and Progressive Liberals for not being bound by the work of a cross-party budget working group.

Conservative Cllr Simon Hore emphasised the need for fully-costed and detailed bids for the £1m jubilee fund.

Lib Dems supported the Conservatives budget and Cllr Mary Robinson said: “The castle grounds are in my town and ward.

"For more than five years. I’ve been asking questions about the lack of flowers and it becoming a mudbath when children play there.

"Volunteers set up a group to help but they faced red tape. We want the field there brought back to good condition so events can be held again.

“The castle is a major attraction and must be put right. So we Lib-Dems will be supporting this budget.

"However, there are good ideas in Labour’s plans too, such as turning the Salvation Army building into apartments for homeless people and disabled payments.”

But Green Cllr Malcolm Peplow said: “The Conservatives have emphasised having a responsible, well thought-through process. But this £1m proposal is a tombola for councillors."

Labour’s Lee Jameson highlighted the borough’s ‘relatively low recycling rate, litter and ‘endemic’ dog fouling as areas needing improvement.

The entire waste collection service could be reviewed while protecting jobs.

Also suggested was reducing the castle grounds funding to support Longridge’s St John’s playing fields.

Disabled and low income residents would be protected from council fees and charges increases, with better-off people bearing the costs.

Funding was also suggested for a carbon reduction and bio-diversity officer and energy efficiencies to save the council money.

The borough's share of the council tax will be just over £170 for a Band D home, with parish or town council precepts added where applicable.

On top of that will be Lancashire County Council, fire and police precepts.