Council Sets District Rate for 2026/27

On Wednesday, 28 January 2026, Council fulfilled one of its most important statutory duties by striking the district rate for 2026/27 and agreeing a balanced budget for the year ahead.

The rate was formally proposed by Councillor Cochrane, and the Council extended its thanks to the members of the Corporate Committee for their careful and detailed review of the organisation's financial position.

Budget planning began in September, when Council agreed a set of clear budgeting principles. These included:

• growing the non-domestic rate base
• targeting efficiencies without reducing services
• making provision for an ambitious capital investment programme

Throughout this process, and while considering challenging prioritisation decisions, Council has maintained its commitment to investing in the places and services that residents rely on every day.

Delivering Practical Environmental Improvements

Several initiatives in the upcoming year will support a cleaner, greener Borough. These include:

• a recycling-on-the-go pilot to make public recycling more convenient
• a kerbside trial of plastic bags and wrapping recycling — a service widely requested by residents
• deployment of mobile CCTV cameras to target fly-tipping, catch offenders, and deter illegal dumping

The next phase of the Green Road to Donaghadee Greenway will also advance, building on major progress already achieved between Newtownards and Bangor and supporting more sustainable, active travel.

Strengthening Communities and Local Wellbeing

Council will continue to invest in the programmes, places and people that help communities thrive.
This includes:

• grants for local sports clubs
• support for athletes, teams and volunteers preparing for Glasgow 2028
• planned enhancements at Ards Blair Mayne and Bangor Aurora
• expansion of accessible leisure activities through the Visually Aware Borough initiative

These investments will help maintain high-quality services and ensure leisure facilities remain inclusive and welcoming for all.

Championing Climate Action

Guided by the Council's Roadmap to Sustainability, the organisation continues to prioritise carbon reduction and protection of natural assets.
Key initiatives include:

• supporting increased household recycling through the kerbside recycling scheme
• enhancing biodiversity across parks and open spaces
• expanding environmental education and green tourism initiatives

These practical steps strengthen local resilience and promote a more sustainable future.

Operational Efficiencies to Manage Costs Responsibly

Council continues to drive efficiencies in essential and high-cost services. Waste disposal remains a significant pressure for councils across the region, but sector‑leading recycling performance locally is delivering reduced disposal costs and greater income from recyclables.

Ongoing work to improve maintenance planning, increase active energy management, and expand the use of renewable technologies—such as solar panels—will support long-term financial sustainability.

Supporting Prosperity and Economic Growth

Council has made a clear commitment to supporting economic development, regeneration and thriving local places.
Key projects progressing across the Borough include:

• Marine Gardens enhancements
• Pre‑planning work for Ballyholme Yacht Club and Pickie Fun Park as part of the Bangor Waterfront Redevelopment
• the new Citizens Hub in Newtownards
• the Innovation Hub in Holywood
• a new Council Civic Office space
• repurposing of Bangor Castle

The planned demolition of the former NIE building at Balloo later this year will also unlock further development opportunities at this strategic site.

Local business support will continue through programmes such as Supporting Thriving High Streets, chamber grants, and funding for Bangor's Business Improvement District.

New Local Action Groups will launch in Spring 2026 for Bangor and the four towns of the Borough, creating a two‑way communication hub that champions place‑based thinking and empowers local communities.

Investing for the Future

Council's capital plan represents over £250 million of investment over the coming decade, with more than 50% of funding secured through central government partners. Responsible financial management requires ensuring predictable capital financing, which this year's budget provides.

District Rate Set for 2026/27

Council has agreed a 4.74% increase to the district rate for 2026/27.
This equates to:

• approximately £2.40 per month for the average household
• around £13 per month for the average business

This budget enables Council to protect essential services, support vibrant communities, strengthen conditions for business growth and investment, and fund the infrastructure required to support the Borough into the next decade and beyond.