Waterford businesses have sharply criticised the proposed commercial rates increase warning it will place already-pressured traders under further strain.
Dozens of retailers contacted councillors and the Waterford Chamber over the weekend, calling for a freeze or reduction in rates as they face rising costs in the new year.
Dean Lavin of the Waterford Business Group said many traders “are at breaking point” and believe a 3.5% rise will threaten the survival of independent shops.
He said business owners cannot understand why Waterford’s commercial rates remain among the highest in the country and that the latest proposal “lands at the worst possible time.”
Executive Response
In a detailed response, Council Chief Executive Sean McKeown acknowledged the financial pressures facing small businesses but defended the recommendation.
He said the commercial rates increase in Waterford, is needed to protect essential local services including street cleaning, public-realm maintenance, safety wardens, footpath repairs, and major events that drive footfall in the city.
Mr McKeown noted that 71% of Waterford businesses have a yearly rates bill of €5,000 or less, meaning the proposed change amounts to under €3.50 per week for most.
He said the Council also offers a Prompt Payment Incentive for small firms and a “Cleaner, Greener Waterford” rates discount for businesses that invest in energy-efficiency measures.
The Waterford Chamber had earlier warned that retailers are already facing wage increases, high energy and insurance costs, parking concerns, reduced footfall, and a series of recent shop closures.
It argued that many businesses feel unheard and requested that councillors reconsider the rise before next week’s budget meeting.
Mr McKeown said the proposal is in line with inflation and stressed that Waterford must maintain service levels to support business activity and keep the city competitive.
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