At a special council meeting held on Wednesday 14th February, Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council has applied an increase of 4.97% to the district rates. This equates to an increase of £22 per year or £0.42 per week for an average household.
The Council said it fully recognises the financial pressures on households and businesses and is focused on maintaining the lowest rate possible, whilst delivering our high quality services to the ratepayers and residents in the Borough.
Council is committed to the continual development and investment in our services and facilities across the Borough for the benefit of our residents, visitors and local businesses.
Major regeneration works ongoing in Antrim and Glengormley town centres including two 16,000sqft state of the art workspace hubs, will attract new businesses to the area fostering economic growth, and creating job opportunities.
Continued improvements and investment across our leisure services, sporting facilities and events programme also reflects our dedication to promoting a healthy and active lifestyle for our citizens.
Speaking on the rates increase Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey Councillor Mark Cooper BEM said;
“The Council is very mindful of the ongoing ‘cost of living crisis’ we are all facing, and we have worked tirelessly to maintain and deliver a low increase to the rates.
“An increase of 4.97% highlights the Council’s efforts to provide high quality and efficient services while ensuring a thriving and resilient future for the Borough.”
The regional rates determined by the Northern Ireland Executive across all Council areas has not yet been set.