Ratepayers in Douglas will have to pay an extra 11p in the pound, after the council announced a 2.5% increase.

The rate rise was announced by council leader David Christian today.

He’s blamed increased staffing costs and external charges for the hike.

It means the rate will go up to 444p in the pound from April, up from 433p.

There will be more coverage of the rates rise in tomorrow’s Manx Independent.