Rate charges introduced for neglected properties

Douglas City Council has announced plans to help renovate its dilapidated and unhabitable buildings. 

The new policy states owners of empty and run-down properties will now face rate charges and will no longer be granted an automatic rate relief.

The council says there are plenty of buildings in the capital that could be homes, businesses or community facilities but are left to decay because owners haven't had to pay rates on them.

It adds the policy is to help restore neglected properties and to make more 'much-needed' housing, with rate exemptions only available in limited cases.