Castletown’s rates will rise by 6.62% from next month.

It takes the town’s rate to 295 pence in the pound.

The rate was approved by the Department of Local Government, despite being above the 4% hike it recommended.

At this week’s board meeting, commissioners explained why the increase was above inflation.

James Davis reports:

(Text of attached audio)

Alwyn Collister said the number of empty properties in the town, coupled with those being demolished as part of the Janet’s Corner redevelopment, had significantly reduced the town's income.

And that would continue for a few years yet with the ?19.6 million scheme not due to be completed until 2012.

Fellow commissioner Tony Mansell agreed.

He also referred to the centre of the town – the Callows Yard development – and the demolition going on there.

He said there was no gain without pain and he said when it was all settled down, he hoped ratepayers would be looking to a situation where there would perhaps be no rate increase.

‘Everyone in the town would deserve it,’ he said.


(Picture courtesy of manxscenes.com)