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By Ewan Gawne - Local Democracy Reporter

Port Erin Commissioners have welcomed progress of their bid to annex the entire Ballakilley estate from neighbouring authority Rushen.

 

It was announced this week, following the outcome of a public inquiry, that Infrastructure Minister Ray Harmer would bring the proposed extension to Tynwald for approval this month.

 

If passed by parliament, it would result in 78 homes in the estate moving under Port Erin’s control, leaving ratepayers to pay an extra £250 in rates on average.

 

A transitional arrangement would be put in place over the next decade to soften the blow of this increase.

 

The loss of this section of the estate would result in a 10% reduction in rates income for Rushen Commissioners.

 

Critics have called Port Erin’s application a ‘land grab for rates’, whilst supporters say the move is a ‘sensible’ extension of the boundary.

 

A spokesperson for Port Erin Commissioners says they have not yet had the opportunity to review the findings of the inquiry in full, but ‘look forward to working closely with their neighbouring authority’.

 

Rushen Parish Commissioners have criticised the report’s findings, and the manner in which they’ve been publicised.

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