High cost of rates' rise (From Warrington Guardian)

High cost of rates' rise

COMPANY bosses last week warned that a businesses rates' rise could force some firms to leave Knutsford.

Tracy Hoather, of delivery firm Same Day Plc, said traders were concerned charges could increase by about 25%.

"I think it will make it hard for some people to remain profitable," she said.

"The worry is are we going to start having empty shops?"

Same Day Plc, which set up in Knutsford about 13 years ago, pays more than £4,200 a year in business rates.

The company has been told its payment will rise by at least a quarter next year.

"It just another thing when small businesses have got so many demands on them already," said Mrs Hoather.

The rateable value off all non-domestic properties in Knutsford will be reviewed before April 1 next year.

Last week Gerald Norden, who runs an optician's in Knutsford, said traders were concerned about rises. "I understand that the majority of business rates have been increased," he said.

Last month the Government sent about 1.3million UK businesses a revaluation of their current rates.

But Val Boston-Davies, who owns Wares in Princess Street, said charges in Knutsford were already too high.

"I think they're very high for what we get," she said.

"The foot fall on the streets is not that good at all. I think there should be some method of allowing for that."

Zane Lewis Hairdressing, which set up in King Street five years ago, currently pays £3,100 in business rates.

Yesterday (Tuesday) Mr Lewis said a rise in charges was another problem for traders who already struggled with parking and road works.

"We have to struggle every year with the rates," he said.

"I don't think they think about the small businesses. It's not like Knutsford is a big city centre."

Earlier this year the Forum of Private Business, campaigned for more help with business rates for small companies.

The pressure group, which is based in Drury Lane, said the Government should increase the aid given to some small firms.