CBRE comments on Scottish Government's response to Barclay review of non domestic rates

The Scottish Government’s response to the Barclay Review of Non Domestic Rates was yesterday (12 September 2017) set out in a statement by finance secretary Derek Mackay

Please find below a comment from Brian Rogan, head of rating at leading property consultancy CBRE Scotland:

“Whilst the Barclay Review was set up by the Scottish Government with the long term aim of improving business growth and investment through a reform of the ratings system, it was given no remit to look at the problems currently faced by businesses due to the 2017 revaluation.

“Although the finance minister’s proposals to move forward with legislation for three year revaluations are a welcome step in the right direction, the proposed implementation date of 2022 offers no support to businesses that are currently struggling with their rates liabilities, particularly those in the north east which have been impacted by the recent downturn in the oil and gas sector.

“For businesses which have received their new 2017 Revaluation Rateable Values but struggle to easily see how they have been set, the only option is to appeal. The Barclay Review recognised flaws in the appeal system, and the lack of transparency behind setting rates that leads to a high volume of appeals. It highlighted the requirement for improvements in these areas, however, with the appeal deadline looming, it remains to be seen whether these will be delivered quickly enough to benefit businesses currently affected.

“Without the Assessors providing specific details of how the values have been arrived at, businesses have little choice but to appeal in order to properly audit their rates. With the strict September 30 deadline little over a fortnight away, I would urge all businesses in this position to take immediate professional advice to ensure they are not stuck with unappraised assessments for the next few years.”

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