Kilkenny County Council has turned down a plea for businesses in Thomastown to have their rates deferred.
Councillor Michael Doyle had called on the local authority to put aside the payments by those impacted by the 16 week works that will start on the culvert on March 1.
A number of councillors pointed out that works take place in most towns & villages & there’s a long-term benefit to the businesses involved. There’s also an issue as to how the deferral of rates would be supported financially, especially if a precedent is set in one area.
But Councillor Doyle said while he accepts this, he believes the business owner can’t always carry the cost.
Plans will go on public display tomorrow (Wednesday) and Councillor Patrick O’Neill says that while the works are necessary & welcome, better communication needs to be established with those who could be affected.