Menu
12/04/2013
Call For Targeted Rates Reductions For Businesses
Deputy John Lyons has stated that there should be targeted rates reductions for businesses in town centres, and has welcomed Chambers Ireland's support for such a policy.
Deputy Lyons said: "Our town and village centres are under increasing pressure from out-of-town retailers who enjoy competitive advantages in terms of easier access and free parking. In Finglas for example, there are 14 vacant units in the small retail core of the village – as a result of direct competition from two large retail centres on its doorstep.
"In recognition that this is happening across the country, Chambers Ireland today listed 'Targeted Rates Reduction for Businesses in Town Centres' as part of its 10 Point Plan for Micro, Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises.
"This plan cites Northern Ireland's Large Retail Levy where there is a temporary 15% increase on rates for very large out-of-town retailers, which funds a rate reduction for smaller town centre retailers. While recommending a more tailored approach here than the Large Retail Levy.
"At present, commercial rates are calculated on the value of a business and so the more your business is worth the more you pay – irrespective of where your business is located. The end result is that town centres – which are recognised Core Retail Areas in planning policy – are being undermined, as economics outpaces planning policy.
"To reverse this trend and to help protect town centre jobs and businesses, we should look to use our rates system to sustain our town and village centres. Enabling Local Authorities to introduce rates regimes that support town centres would also enhance our Local Government in line with the Putting People First reforms."
(CD/H)
Deputy Lyons said: "Our town and village centres are under increasing pressure from out-of-town retailers who enjoy competitive advantages in terms of easier access and free parking. In Finglas for example, there are 14 vacant units in the small retail core of the village – as a result of direct competition from two large retail centres on its doorstep.
"In recognition that this is happening across the country, Chambers Ireland today listed 'Targeted Rates Reduction for Businesses in Town Centres' as part of its 10 Point Plan for Micro, Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises.
"This plan cites Northern Ireland's Large Retail Levy where there is a temporary 15% increase on rates for very large out-of-town retailers, which funds a rate reduction for smaller town centre retailers. While recommending a more tailored approach here than the Large Retail Levy.
"At present, commercial rates are calculated on the value of a business and so the more your business is worth the more you pay – irrespective of where your business is located. The end result is that town centres – which are recognised Core Retail Areas in planning policy – are being undermined, as economics outpaces planning policy.
"To reverse this trend and to help protect town centre jobs and businesses, we should look to use our rates system to sustain our town and village centres. Enabling Local Authorities to introduce rates regimes that support town centres would also enhance our Local Government in line with the Putting People First reforms."
(CD/H)
Related Northern Ireland Business News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.
22 February 2024
New Support Package For Businesses Affected By Flooding
A new support package for businesses affected by flooding has been announced by Economy Minister Conor Murphy. The Enhanced Flood Support Scheme will provide further support to businesses that were directly flooded following the severe weather in late October and early November.
New Support Package For Businesses Affected By Flooding
A new support package for businesses affected by flooding has been announced by Economy Minister Conor Murphy. The Enhanced Flood Support Scheme will provide further support to businesses that were directly flooded following the severe weather in late October and early November.
13 March 2013
Call For Commercial Rates To Be Lower For Town Centre Developments
Labour Deputy, John Lyons, has stated that commercial rates should be lower for town centre developments and higher for large out of town developments – to help sustain smaller retailers that are currently under pressure.
Call For Commercial Rates To Be Lower For Town Centre Developments
Labour Deputy, John Lyons, has stated that commercial rates should be lower for town centre developments and higher for large out of town developments – to help sustain smaller retailers that are currently under pressure.
22 March 2024
11 Administrative Challenges Facing Small Businesses
In today's rapidly evolving business landscape, small businesses are facing an unprecedented array of challenges. From navigating the complexities of technology and compliance to fostering meaningful customer relationships and managing a dispersed workforce, the hurdles can seem insurmountable.
11 Administrative Challenges Facing Small Businesses
In today's rapidly evolving business landscape, small businesses are facing an unprecedented array of challenges. From navigating the complexities of technology and compliance to fostering meaningful customer relationships and managing a dispersed workforce, the hurdles can seem insurmountable.
26 July 2011
Large Retailer Tax 'Retrograde Step'
Major retailers are calling for the introduction of legislation that would enable them to make properly targeted contributions to the 'health' of Northern Ireland's high streets - and not a tax on larger traders as has been proposed.
Large Retailer Tax 'Retrograde Step'
Major retailers are calling for the introduction of legislation that would enable them to make properly targeted contributions to the 'health' of Northern Ireland's high streets - and not a tax on larger traders as has been proposed.
01 February 2018
Antrim Town Business Awards Announced
Antrim & Newtownabbey Borough Council, in association with Antrim Town Team, has announced the Antrim Town Business Awards.
Antrim Town Business Awards Announced
Antrim & Newtownabbey Borough Council, in association with Antrim Town Team, has announced the Antrim Town Business Awards.
-
Northern Ireland WeatherToday:Mostly dry south and east, patchy light rain west and north through much of the day. A band of heavier rain crosses central and northern parts in the morning Maximum temperature 13 °C.Tonight:Dry in the southeast at first otherwise widespread light rain or drizzle for most, turning to clear spells and a few showers towards morning. Minimum temperature 5 °C.
