Chamber Welcomes Rates Effort

The Chamber President commented today on the Council's efforts to keep the rates increase as low as possible, culminating in the striking of a district rates increase of 5.59% for non domestic and 5.58 for domestic.

Ian Crowe commended the Council for the hard work they have undergone in reaching this measured increase. He pointed out that the Chamber have been meeting regularly with the Council Directors and local Party leaders discussing a key economic priorities and the issues of efficiency, expenditure and the percentage increase on the rates have been top of the agenda. He said "The Council has been taking tough, but necessary decisions; they have focused on a continued scrutiny on savings and a change in the wealth base for the rates and this has contributed to a positive result."

Janice Tracey, the Chamber Chief Executive agreed and pointed out that the Council has had to review its commitments and make some hard decisions. She said "As with any business, especially in times of recession, the Council has had to review its business operations and the savings of almost 1.5 million is to be welcomed. It is clear that without this approach the rates increase would have been nearer 10%"

The President concluded "I appreciate that this has resulted in the closure of some civic amenity sites and the reduction of opening hours at some centres however the Council have assured us that this should not detract significantly from their overall services to these communities. I am delighted that there remains a substantial number of capital projects planned, underway or near completion and the Chamber is looking forward to significant progress on the Walled City Lighting Strategy in particular ".