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COMMUNITY GROUPS CLAIM VICTORY IN BATTLE TO AXE THE RAIN TAX

October 1, 2009 11:30 AM

Andrew StunellHazel Grove MP Andrew Stunell and community groups across Stockport were today celebrating victory in their battle to axe the "rain tax" after a u-turn from Environment Secretary Hilary Benn.

The so-called "rain tax" imposed by United Utilities put huge bills for surface water drainage charges on the desks of churches, community and voluntary groups in the town earlier this year.

The rises threatened to devastate many local organisations including sports clubs, churches and Scout groups across Stockport.

This year already in the North West, United Utilities have pushed up charges steeply, with one village hall facing a rise from £54 to £2,580 a year. A Scout Hut also saw an increase from £40 to £563 a year.

Now after pressure from community groups backed by Mr Stunell, the government has reversed their position, and announced that it will legislate to allow for concessionary schemes to be made available by water companies for local community groups.

Commenting, Andrew Stunell, a prominent supporter of the "Axe the Rain Tax" campaign said:

"This is a great victory for community groups throughout Stockport, and up and down the country as well.

"The North West has been particularly hard hit by United Utilities sledgehammer tactics, and I am delighted that the Government have backed down and agreed to help our local community groups.

"We need to encourage community activity, not penalise it, and that's why I am so pleased that these hard-working voluntary organisations can go on doing the irreplaceable work they do in our local communities.

ENDS

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