Derry City Council agrees rates increase of 2.58%

derryDerry City Council has agreed a rates increase of 2.58%.
The rate was struck last evening following what a council spokesperson described as intense negotiations between officers and elected members.
Derry City Council says it is facing unforeseen financial costs and economic difficulties while trying to meet growing expectations following the success of 2013.
Policy and Resources Committee Chair Cllr Gerard Divertold the meeting that the 2.58% increase, coupled with a regional rate increase of 2.7%, will result in an increase of 40 pence per week to the average residential ratepayer.
He said ratepayers can be assured that every effort was made to ensure the increase was kept to a minimum, and all resources allocated offered best practice and value for money.
Acording to Cllr Diver,. the increase allows for an additional £207,000 towards Council’s ambitious 5 year capital plan totaling over £115m over half of which will come from external sources.
He added the Council plans to build the Leisure Development Fund from its current £12.7m to £21.7m within three years and to lever the additional funding necessary to develop a new £35m Templemore Sports Complex, as well as plans to continue with the implementation of the Foyle Valley Gateway Plan and also to develop a Maritime Museum and Archive Centre at Ebrington.

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement