Local councils across Northern Ireland have announced their rates for the upcoming year, with four councils opting for increases above the current inflation rate of 3.75%. The highest rate was set by Ards and North Down Borough Council, which approved a 4.74% increase for both domestic and non-domestic properties. This decision was made following a special meeting held by the Belfast City Council on March 15, 2024, marking the conclusion of rate-setting discussions among the eleven local authorities.
In detail, households in Ards and North Down will see an additional £28.80 per year, while businesses will incur an extra £156. The council stated that the increased revenue will support essential programs, including recycling initiatives and various regeneration projects, notably the Bangor Waterfront redevelopment. This rate increase will also help finance a significant £250 million capital investment plan, with half of the funding sourced from central government.
Conversely, Fermanagh & Omagh District Council reported the lowest increase at 1.96%, translating to an average annual cost of £10 for households and £26 for businesses. This decision was backed by a service delivery budget of £46,306,311 and a capital plan of £34,575,000, aimed at enhancing local facilities including the Fermanagh Lakeland Forum and town centre improvements in Enniskillen and Omagh.
Meanwhile, Derry City & Strabane District Council approved a rate of 4.48%, resulting in an additional cost of £27.79 per household each year. The council justified the increase as necessary to offset reductions in government grants and rising utility costs, emphasizing that a higher rate was essential to match income levels seen in wealthier areas.
Belfast City Council ultimately set its rate at 4.4% despite calls from the Alliance Party for a lower figure of 4.25%. This increase will contribute to ongoing initiatives aimed at improving city infrastructure and services. Additionally, Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council established a rate of 4.25%, which will add approximately £23.40 to annual household bills. The council highlighted ongoing developments, including the Dundonald International Ice Bowl, projected for completion in 2027.
The Mid Ulster District Council opted for a below-inflation rate of 3.4%, which will increase household bills by around £46. This decision aligns with planned improvements aimed at fostering civic pride through town regeneration projects.
The Causeway Coast and Glens council announced a smaller than anticipated rate increase of 3.35%, costing the average household an additional £20.58. Council Mayor Oliver McMullan noted ongoing investments in local services, including the new Ballycastle Leisure Centre, a project valued at £16.4 million.
Other councils, including Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council and Mid and East Antrim Borough Council, reported increases of 2.99% and 2.95%, respectively. These increases are designed to maintain essential services and support planned capital projects, which include fleet upgrades and leisure centre improvements.
Lastly, Newry, Mourne and Down District Council set a rate of 2.8%, adding £18 to average household expenses. Council Chairperson Philip Campbell framed this decision as a “vote of confidence” in the district, with plans for significant investments in community health and wellbeing facilities.
In summary, while most councils in Northern Ireland have maintained rates below the current inflation level, the decisions made this year reflect a balance between financial pressures and the need for continued investment in local infrastructure and services.
