Mall rate to stay higher

THE special municipal rate charged on Bridge Mall properties is set to be extended for another five years following a decision by City of Ballarat councillors during their regular December meeting.

Due to expire in June next year, the rate, which is above the standard commercial property rate, allows the Bridge Mall Business Association to promote and advertise the shopping space.

The plan to extend it comes at the request of the BMBA, and mayor Cr Des Hudson said the municipality is happy to support the group.

“The special rate has existed since 1988 and we are pleased to support the request from the Bridge Mall Business Association by commencing the statutory process for it to continue,” he said.

“As a council, we are committed to seeing the Bridge Mall succeed as a shopping precinct.

“We are happy to take the next step towards extending the special rate to allow the Mall to thrive.”

The special rate also allows for a centre manager for the precinct as well as CCTV surveillance and the employment of security guards, and is applicable to all of Bridge Mall’s 80 properties.

If declared, the rate is expected to garner $160,000 following its first year of adoption before increasing to $180,000 in its final year.

The special rate was previously renewed every three years, and has recently raised $148,000 a year.