Braddan Commissioners reduce rates

Braddan Commissioners have reduced their rates for the forthcoming year.

It will be 215p in the pound - a drop of 4p.

The Commissioners say there a number of reasons for the reduction;

Firstly, the beneficial effect of not having to make financial provision following former Clerk Charles Lewin's failed attempt to sue the Board.

Second, their decision to use some of their reserves to progress a number of improvement schemes including the upgrading or installation of streetlights in and around Ballafletcher Road and Cooil Road.

And finally, the addition of new properties on to the rate list which meant an increase in income.

However, Chairman Andrew Jessopp sounded a note of caution saying that the board had "made a judgement call" on the cost implications of the transfer of services from central government.

He said this situation would be carefully monitored and any additional costs may require the rates to increase next year.