Rates exemption for ATMS in rural areas: Policy evaluation

The Department has completed an evaluation of the policy of awarding a rates exemption to ATMs located in designated rural wards. This policy was introduced in 2007 and Direct Rule Ministers decided that the policy should be put in place for 3 years, at which time a returning local Assembly could decide whether to retain it or not. The exemption was therefore due to expire in April 2010, and a evaluation has been carried out to inform this decision.

On the basis of the results of this evaluation, including the input from stakeholders, the Minister has decided to retain the policy beyond April 2010.