RICS Welcomes Budget Rates Package

The announced reduction in non-domestic regional rates, which we had called for the Executive to consider, will provide a boost for the ailing high street going forward in the longer term,” said the Institution’s Policy Manager, Dr. Patrice Cairns.

“While the immediate three-months rates holiday for all non-domestic ratepayers is welcome, we would urge the NI Executive to be open to further support for business, such as a six or 12 month rates holiday and further reliefs. Many high streets were struggling before Coronavirus hit and will need extra help in the immediate period when the crisis is over.

 “New Decade, New Approach promised not only a strategy to address the immediate and longer-term impacts of climate change, but citied a commitment to turbocharge infrastructure delivery across sectors in Northern Ireland. RICS would like to see multi-year budgets in place, and the use of the unallocated FTC where possible to help accelerate delivery of vital low carbon and resilient infrastructure.’’

 “RICS further urges the Executive to fast track their commitment to urgently invest in wastewater infrastructure. Without the significant support required for strategic drainage under the Living with Water Programme, not only is there an enhanced risk of resilience issues, but a further risk of city deal projects being unviable because necessary infrastructure is not in place.’’

 

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