At the moment, vacant commercial properties are liable for just 50% of their rates.

That has contributed to large banks of vacant properties, such as the derelict buildings which form part of the proposed Tribeca project in Belfast city centre.

But Finance Minister John O’Dowd has said the rates bill for vacant commercial properties will increase to 75% before the end of the current Assembly mandate in 2027.

Full rates would then be payable for non-domestic vacant properties during the next mandate.

The move follows a review of rates relief measures, with the Minister also announcing a new business growth accelerator.

Mr O’Dowd told the Assembly on Tuesday: “What was clear from the review was the need to challenge the blight of vacant properties in our villages, towns and city centres

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