A local authority is warning residents could face a 12.5% increase on rates if the government’s proposed changes come into effect.
Malew Parish Commissioners has also rejected claims that changes to rates paid by quarries would have minimal impact on its income.
The commissioners have major concerns with the government’s consultation, particularly Policy Proposal 3, and have written to the Treasury Minister to request its removal.
In a statement, the authority said: “The Policy Proposal 3 underestimates the implications and consequences of Quarry Operations within this Parish, and the consultation document states that the impact on Malew ratepayers would be minimal. This is not true.”
They revealed that overall quarry income for the current year is approximately 17% of expected rates receivable, which they describe as “hardly insignificant”.
The board argues that if the proposals are implemented, ratepayers may see up to a 12.5% increase.
They state the proposed changes should not be part of this consultation but should be included in the wider review of the rating system.