Ramsey Commissioners have confirmed their rate rise is 9.6% for the next financial year.

The commissioners have blamed ’increased costs imposed by central government’ for the increase which sees the cost raise from 364p to 399p.

The increase is the second large jump in the past two years, with last years 4.6% meaning residents in the north are paying 14.2% more than they were in 2017/18.

Commissioners chairman Andy Cowie said: ’’At a time when we are faced with escalating costs, many of which are outside our control, combined with additional demands on our service provision, it is crucial that for the future prosperity of our town we have a robust financial model in place.

’After a long period of absorbing cost increases from our reserves we were hoping to implement gradual rises to get us back on a sustainable footing. Regrettably we have been unable to achieve this in the face of mounting operational costs.

’As well as the commission’s day-to-day business we will continue to support the events and improvements that make Ramsey the great town it is: such as our fireworks display and seasonal events, delivering efficiencies in our equipment and buildings - including our highly-rated library - and investing in staff training.

’Before determining this rate, the Commissioners laboured long and hard over the budget process to ensure that every expense and project considered delivered value for the ratepayer.

’Ramsey Town Commissioners are determined not to let rising fees and charges compromise our investment in the future of the town, securing our long-term financial stability and ensuring brighter prospects for Ramsey’s future.’

In announcing the new rate, the commissioners blamed an increase in national insurance contributions following the introduction of the new single-tier Manx state pension.

The rise in gate fee charges at the energy from waste plant and the recently agreed pay award contribute to more than half of the rate increase.

Other costs have included upgrades to the north promenade, decorative lighting in Parliament Street and resurfacing of the water play feature in Mooragh Park.

Defending the commissioner’s increase, Ramsey MHK Lawrie Hooper tweeted: ’These above inflation rate increases all over the Island make it clear that government policies are pushing more costs onto a rates system which is becoming increasingly unsustainable. Time for reform!

’Looks like half the proposed increase is coming directly from central government imposed costs - demonstrating clearly why we need to reform this outdated rates system!’