RAMSEY TOWN COMMISSIONERS SET RATE AT 510P FOR THE FINANCIAL YEAR 2025-2026
Ramsey Town Commissioners have set the rate for the 2025-26 financial year at 510p. This is a 3% rise over the year 2024-25. The new rate will represent an increase of approximately 38p per week for a typical three-bedroom property within the town.
The 2025-26 rate reflects wider charges beyond the commission’s control, including an increase of 5.23% in the gate fee at the Energy from Waste Plant for refuse disposal and a rate contribution to for the Northern Swimming Pool There is also continued requirement placed on the Commission to invest in its equipment and infrastructure for the present and the future of the town.
The Commission will this year undertake a series of projects including:
- Replacing fencing in the Mooragh Park play area
- An upgrade to the South Beach raft
- Purchase of a street sweeper in favour of having to hire
- Continuation of the “invest to save” programme of replacing older street lights with LED lights to reduce energy consumption. This includes the safety testing of the lighting columns and replacement of those beyond repair
- Continued programme of surveying trees owned by the Commission and associated works
- Development of the Riverside Workshop compound to improve service delivery
Ffinlo Williams, Lead Member for Finance and General Purposes, commented:
"After a forensic review of our finances and a pragmatic approach to what is achievable in the year ahead, the Commission has carefully considered the projects we can deliver for Ramsey based on both necessity and affordability. We recognise that the cost of living crisis is still ongoing, and we do not want to place unnecessary financial strain on residents.
While this year’s budget remains cautious, I am pleased that we have been able to keep the rates increase to a minimum while ensuring that many essential projects can go ahead in the 2025-2026 financial year (some of which have been discussed by this current board since its first budget in 2022). These include critical investments in vehicle replacements, asbestos testing, and improved storage facilities at our works depot; projects that, while not immediately visible, are vital to maintaining key services and ensuring the town’s long-term sustainability.
This budget focuses on safeguarding the town’s infrastructure, allowing us to replace aging assets before they become costly liabilities. By making these investments now, we are ensuring more efficient operations, reducing long-term costs, and ultimately providing better value to ratepayers. While residents may not see obvious changes as a result of this year’s rates increase, the improvements will have a lasting impact, ensuring that the town continues to function smoothly, services are delivered effectively, and future boards can focus on enhancements rather than urgent repairs.
Although we have taken a responsible and measured approach this year, we remain hopeful that, as inflation stabilises and economic conditions improve, future budgets will allow for more visible and ambitious projects. For now, our focus is on laying the groundwork for the next board and a more efficient and well-managed town, ensuring that Ramsey remains a great place to live and work for years to come."
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