Onchan Commissioners have announced that rates will be frozen at 312p in the pound for the forthcoming year.

The board explained during a meeting on Monday that they would be taking measures to ensure Onchan ratepayers would not have to pay more while maintaining the same level of services.

Commissioner Martin Macfarlane, who is vice chairman and lead member for finance and general purposes said: ’At the beginning of the current financial year, the commissioners set out to maintain the current level of services to the community whilst working to find more cost effective and innovative ways of providing those services.

’One example of innovation was the development of a wristband system for Onchan Park which provided a good deal for visitors and overall growth in revenue for the authority by increasing footfall.

’As a result of good work throughout the year, the authority is set to achieve its budget projections and result in a small surplus of approximately £7,000 for the current financial year.

’In focusing on the forthcoming year, the budget is once again designed to sustain the current level of services to the community, maintain a rolling programme of maintenance and make provision for a small enhancement package to Onchan Park, subject to outcomes of the Onchan Park strategic review.

’The board of Onchan District Commissioners have recognised the needs and pressures faced by social housing tenants and private households alike within our community.

’Combining these factors with the sound financial position of the authority, the commissioners are delighted to announce that the district rate is frozen for the forthcoming year at 312p in the pound.’

The commissioners will be carrying out a debate to decide on a strategy that will bring long-term investments to Onchan Park, as they do not want changes to become obsolete.

The park’s new wristband system is thought to add value for money, as the public can access a number of activities within a day instead of paying per activity.

lMeanwhile, Castletown Town Commissioners announced a rate increase of 21p in the pound for 2018, bringing the total to 341p in the pound. Chairman Colin Leather said: ’It’s time to accept if this town is to continue to improve itself, then rate rises are necessary and will likely be necessary in future years.’