'Inflation' and 'costs beyond control' blamed for Douglas rates rise

Payments to increase from April

Douglas Borough Council has blamed the rise of inflation, and costs beyond its control, for a 3.8 per cent rate increase.

The rate for the next financial year - of 468 pence in the pound - was announced yesterday.

The rate of inflation rose to 6% in December, indicating a rise in the cost of living on the Island.

Lead Councillor Claire Wells says the council's priority is to continue to deliver key services:

Meanwhile, there's uncertainty around how the increase in rates will affect both tenants and landlords.

Private landlords in the Isle of Man generally pay the rates on their property.

Residential Director of Black Grace Cowley Tim Groves says properties are investments and rates increases could have a knock-on effect on the tenant: