Council Sets Budget and District Rate
Fermanagh and Omagh District Council has confirmed its revenue budget of £45.4 million and a capital plan of £31.25 million for the 2025–2026 financial year. The decision was reached at a Special Council Meeting held on Thursday 6 February 2025 in Enniskillen, marking a key milestone in shaping local services and infrastructure developments.
This budget aims to address ongoing financial challenges, including cost pressures and a reduction in Central Government funding, while continuing to invest in programmes that support local communities and residents’ wellbeing.
Key Financial Details
The recently agreed District Rate for 2025–2026 will rise by 3.76% for both domestic and non-domestic properties. This represents an approximate monthly increase of £1.50 for an average domestic property valued at £115,000 and an additional £4.00 per month for a non-domestic property with an average net annual value of £5,000. These changes apply only to the District Rate portion of the rates bill.
In preparation for this budget, the Council identified £1.3 million in budget savings, effectively used reserves to manage ongoing pressures, and pursued external funding opportunities to help minimise the impact on ratepayers.
Capital Investment Programme
An ambitious capital investment plan, valued at £31.25 million for 2025–2026, forms part of a broader five-year strategy. External funding of £22.7 million is expected to contribute significantly to reducing the cost of these projects for local ratepayers. Proposed initiatives include:
- Upgrading Leisure Centres across the District
- Developing Mid South West projects
- Regenerating town centres
- Improving play areas as part of the Play Strategy
- Continuing the Community Capital Grants Programme
- Investing in new vehicles, equipment, and plant to enhance service delivery
- Undertaking development works at waste facilities
Ongoing Services and Rates Overview
The Council delivers core functions such as waste collection, environmental health, registration services, planning, building control, and cemeteries. It also provides additional services to improve community wellbeing and support residents, including leisure, recreation, and business assistance.
Rates bills issued by Land and Property Services (LPS) combine both the District Rate, set by the Council, and the Regional Rate, determined by the Northern Ireland Executive. Since the Regional Rate is still to be confirmed, the total impact on rates bills remains subject to final decisions by Central Government.
Looking Ahead
This newly set budget and District Rate comprise the financial foundation for the Council’s continued delivery of services, enabling local infrastructure projects and supporting the aspirations outlined in the Community Plan 2030. Residents and businesses interested in learning more about how their rates contribute to local services can visit the Council’s website, where an online tool and further details are available.