Douglas rate rise prompts calls for local authority reform

A political party has called for local authority reform after Douglas Council raised rates by more than twice the rate of inflation.

Liberal Vannin says many will find it difficult to afford, adding the council should give a comprehensive justification for the rise.

Party leader Paul Weatherall says the latest round of budget announcements from local authorities shows reforming rates and the Island's local government structure is badly needed.

He's also called for an all-Island rate for local swimming pools, which could raise an extra £2.6 million for the facilities.