Background and Policy Objectives
3.The Order aims to make several key changes to the existing non-domestic rating system in Northern Ireland. They are part of a major programme of rating reform initiated by the former Northern Ireland Executive in 2000 with the aim of establishing a modern and fairer rating system in Northern Ireland.
4.The main policy objectives of the Order are:
(i)
to phase out the exemption from rates for industrial property, known as “industrial derating”. The phase out begins on 1 April 2005 and will be completed by 31 March 2011;
(ii)
to introduce the rating of unoccupied non-domestic property, including new buildings; and
(iii)
to provide for hardship relief in exceptional circumstances.