The number of top earners on Barnet Council has risen by 70 per cent in a year, according to new figures.

Data from campaign group The TaxPayers’ Alliance shows the local authority had 12 people earning more than £100,000 in 2017-18 – up from seven during the previous year.

The highest earners include the chief executive, the strategic director of environment and the strategic director of children and young people.

The identities of four of the top earners were not disclosed.

The ‘Town Hall Rich List’ reveals Essex had the highest number of top earners in 2017-18, with 55 workers on salaries of more than £100,000.

In London, Hackney and Lambeth councils each paid 28 employees more than £100,000.

The number of top earners also increased in neighbouring Enfield.

John O’Connell, chief executive of the TaxPayers’ Alliance, said: “The average council tax bill has gone up by more than £900 over the last twenty years and spending has gone through the roof.

“Disappointingly, many local authorities are now responding to financial reality through further tax rises and reducing services rather than scaling back top pay.

“Despite many in the public sector facing a much-needed pay freeze to help bring the public finances under control, many town hall bosses are continuing to pocket huge remuneration packages, with staggering pay-outs for those leaving their jobs.

“There are talented people in the public sector who are trying to deliver more for less, but the sheer scale of these packages raises serious questions about efficiency and priorities.”

A Barnet Council spokesperson said: “As the largest borough in London, we have a responsibility in delivering a wide range of services to our residents, including caring for the elderly and ensuring vulnerable children are kept safe.

“It therefore stands to reason that we have the right people running these services, with the correct skills and experience, to ensure we do the best possible job for our residents.

“We are committed to providing value for money to local taxpayers. The recent restructure of senior management resulted in savings of £750,000.

“This same restructure also saw the removal of the assistant chief executive position.”