Ratepayers across Newry and Mourne will have reason to celebrate tonight (Monday) after a decision was taken not to increase rates for the coming year.
At a meeting of Newry and Mourne District Council this evening, councillors have unanimously approved a freeze on rates.
The news has been welcomed by the SDLP’s council group leader Michael Carr, who said it was the first time domestic and business rates had been frozen since he joined council 13 years ago.
Speaking after the meeting, he said: “This is good news for home and business owners, many of whom are facing tough times, given the current economic challenges and many of whom have lobbied us in recent months.
“It is the first time that we have managed to strike a rate at zero per cent so it’s a great achievement, and especially when you consider council had to pick up over £1 million extra costs involved in the Review of Public Administration and an election year.”
Armagh City and District Council will meet tomorrow night (Tuesday) to agree its new rate for the year ahead.
