11/08/2016

New Back To Business Rate Relief Scheme Launched

The Finance Minister and nibusinessinfo have announced a new rate support scheme, aimed at encouraging the occupation of unused business premises.

The 'Back in Business' initiative offers a 50% rate reduction for up to a year, for business owners that occupy a retail property that was previously empty.

Launching the scheme at an event at General Merchants Cafe on the Ormeau Road, Finance Minister Máirtín Ó Muilleoir, said: "We all want to see our town centres and shopping areas thriving. This excellent rate support scheme aims to bring vibrancy, footfall and investment back to our high streets while providing businesses with a boost in their first year of trading."

Minister Ó Muilleoir said that the host venue, General Merchants, was a "tremendous example" of the benefits of this scheme.

"The difference that a bustling business can make to a once empty property on a main thoroughfare is striking," Minister Ó Muilleoir added. "I would urge anyone planning to start a business or expand an existing business to consider setting up in an empty unit and avail of the support on offer from Back in Business."

Businesses interested in applying for the relief scheme can complete an online application on the nibusinessinfo website.

(MH/JP)

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