Local authorities: "High levels of rates increases are unavoidable"

Five local authorities have issued a joint statement citing 'high levels of rate increases are unavoidable.'

Braddan, Castletown, Douglas, Port Erin and Port St Mary authorities say they're 'not immune' to cost of living pressures.

But, it's added as inflation currently stands at over 10%, an uplift of costs has had to be factored into authority's budgets.

It comes following the announcement public sector rents on Island are set to rise by 5%, from April next year.

Ratepayers who find themselves struggling to pay are urged to seek help from organisations relevant to their circumstances.