Derry and Strabane council rates to increase nearly 5%, adding £28.96 annually to ratepayers. Investments and budget addressed.
Sinn Fein said the 4.92% rise was their smallest option. It allows the council to improve leisure centers. They also aim to prevent job losses and keep existing services. This was according to a council meeting on Monday.
The council finalized the 2025/26 budget and agreed on the District Rates increase. It will affect ratepayers by 4.92%. The council says the increase addresses key financial issues.
The council increase has two parts. A 3.42% increase handles financial challenges, and the other is a 1.50% capital project investment. Pay pressures significantly affect the council. Employer’s national insurance added £1.1m.
New waste income helps the rates, enabling service investment. They are putting £1.266m back into the budget. This helps mitigate service cuts and address service demands.
Investments include reservoir management, and frontline services receive maintenance funds. More money supports grant programs, including sports, culture, and community groups. Resources will also address violence against women, and tourism will focus on screen and food options.
The budget helps maintain frontline services, and the council protects current jobs. They are committed to community services. The funding also supports projects.
Over £200m of capital projects are done or ongoing. These involve local farms, sports hubs, and cemeteries. The projects include a museum and Coronavirus recovery investments. Riverine and Strabane projects got approved as well.
Sinn Fein says costs are affecting households. They aimed to keep rates as low as possible. British Government cuts hurt public services greatly. Support from Stormont has helped the airport.
They are prioritizing the Northwest. This will assist regional balance. City Deal projects progress is also key. The expansion of Magee continues rapidly.
The council wants to invest in the district. They aim to secure jobs plus services. They will construct leisure centers in Derry plus Strabane. Funding is in place for several council projects. This includes community centers and playgrounds.