‘Savings and reserves’ keep Onchan’s rates low

Commissioner explains budgetary approach

A combination of savings and healthy reserves have helped keep Onchan Commissioners rates low, according to the authority’s lead member for finance.

It was announced this week the rates would go up two per cent, to 318 pence in the pound.

Robin Turton says the rise will help the commissioners ‘hold even’, and pay all costs anticipated in the next financial year.

Rates were frozen by the local authority in 2018, and over the last three years have risen 1.6 per cent.

Local Democracy Reporter Ewan Gawne asked Mr Turton to explain how the commissioners have managed to keep the rates so low.