Thirty per cent rates hike in Michael

Michael commissioners have announced a whopping thirty per cent rates rise for the coming year.

The rise is the second largest rates increase in a decade after Port St Mary put its rates up by 32 per cent in 2004.

Michael commisioners say the increase – from 99 pence in the pound to 129 pence – comes after hikes in waste costs as the government phases out waste disposal subsidies.

The board also blames ongoing projects such as a BMX park and higher auditing and accounting costs.

Peter Hayes, the board’s vice-chairman, refused to be interviewed but in a statement the board claimed the rates are still good value and less than half the Island average.