Onchan's rural ratepayers will pay the same as their urban counterparts - but it will be phased in over the next five years.

Tynwald has approved a 100% hike for residents in the rural ward, who had enjoyed a 50% allowance.

The idea was thrown out last year, because it was suggested the change should be implemented immediately.

However it has been decided the increase will be introduced gradually, with all ratepayers in the village paying the full amount by 2010.

Sole elected member of the rural ward on the Board of Onchan Commissioners, Keith Watterson, says the problem has been long standing: