Rate rises average out at 1.65%

Ratepayers on the Island are facing an average rise of 1.65 per cent in bills this year to pay for local services.

It comes after the twenty-two authorities all announced their rates for the year 2019-2020, which will come into effect from 1 April.

The 1.65 per cent figure is below the January 2.6 per cent CPI inflation index.

The average does not include the separate waste rates and fixed charges which are implemented by some local authorities, many have which have risen.

Douglas Council’s rate will be the highest at 433 pence in the pound, with Bride Commissioners to hold the lowest rate at 43 pence in the pound.

A series of costs ‘imposed’ by central government were to blame for the increases according to many local politicians.

These include a 5.7 per cent increase in gate fees at the Energy From Waste Plant and other disposal sites, the ending of contracting out of pensions, and a pay award settlement