Moray SNP News

LOCAL MSP BACKS SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT RATES RELIEF

Richard Lochhead MSP has welcomed the announcement made by Finance Secretary Derek Mackay today, outlining further support available to businesses following the revaluation of premises by the independent assessor.

Speaking after the Cabinet Secretary’s statement, Richard Lochhead MSP said:

“In recent weeks I’ve met with many local businesses who were concerned about the scale of the rates increases they were facing, with those in the hospitality sector being hit particularly hard.  I discussed the situation in Moray with the Finance Secretary in recent days and conveyed to him the impact the revaluation would have on local businesses and especially our hotels, restaurants and cafes. 

“The Cabinet Secretary has clearly listened to businesses in Moray and the North East and has come to the rescue by providing substantial support to those most affected, and I know that local businesses will welcome the 12.5% cap on increases for the hospitality sector – especially given that some were facing hikes of over 200% following the independent revaluation. 

“This action from the Scottish Government to help our hospitality sector is of huge importance given the significance of tourism to Moray’s economy.

“Any business still concerned about their valuation should meet the assessors before the final figures are released in mid-March and thereafter there is an appeals process. I am asking for hardship cases and the highest increases to be prioritised in that appeals process. The Moray Council also has the ability to introduce a relief scheme should there be any sectors that continue to need specific help.

“In the meantime, there is an ongoing review of business rates that will report in the summer.”