Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council has announced a 3.99% increase in the district rate for both domestic and non-domestic properties, effective from the 2025/26 financial year. This adjustment was agreed at a meeting on Thursday, 6 February 2025. For an average household, the increase amounts to around 41 pence per week.
The Council emphasises it has worked diligently to keep the rate rise relatively low given the prevailing cost-of-living challenges, while still delivering key services and projects in the local area.
Budget Overview and Key Projects
According to Councillor Nicholas Trimble, Chair of the Corporate Services Committee, the small rate increase will help protect essential services and fund initiatives benefiting residents for years ahead. He highlighted a multi-million-pound investment in the new Dundonald International Ice Bowl, which is expected to create jobs, boost tourism, and strengthen the city’s position as a premier visitor destination. He also underlined the Council’s new Tourism Strategy, intended to build on the economic success of local events.
Cllr Trimble noted that the 2024 Christmas programme drew 145,000 visitors to the city centre, giving businesses a welcome boost. The Council plans to build on this success in 2025 with further quality events. Additionally, the Council has decided to freeze all leisure activity prices for a third consecutive year, ensuring continued affordable access to health and wellbeing facilities.
Future Considerations
Vice-Chair of Corporate Services Committee, Councillor Nancy Eaton, explained that finalising the district rate and budgets for 2025 was a challenging process, requiring significant planning and analysis. However, it will enable Lisburn & Castlereagh to remain a vibrant place to live and work, with high-quality services representing excellent value.
Cllr Eaton also highlighted the importance of programmes such as the Council’s apprenticeship initiative, which has attracted talented individuals to the workforce. Looking ahead, the Council remains committed to identifying efficiencies and delivering the best possible value to ratepayers.
Significance and Community Involvement
The Council’s decision to set the rate at a 3.99% increase ensures continued development of local infrastructure, events, and services. Residents are encouraged to stay informed about upcoming projects and to take advantage of the leisure facilities, which remain priced at current rates for another year. Further details on Council initiatives can be obtained directly from Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council.