During the Spring Budget 2023, the government launched a consultation to investigate the extent of avoidance, evasion, and poor rating agent behavior in the business rates system, as well as potential strategies to address these issues.
In our submission, ACS has expressed support for the proposed restructuring of Empty Property Relief (EPR) as a means to incentivize landlords to occupy vacant properties on high streets. We have emphasized the negative impact that empty properties have on communities and existing businesses, as they decrease footfall and undermine the commercial vitality of these areas.
Additionally, we have urged the government to expedite the Check, Challenge, Appeals (CCA) process for empty properties. By streamlining this procedure, vacant properties can be occupied more swiftly, alleviating the problem of prolonged vacancies.
James Lowman, CEO of ACS, stated, “We welcome the measures proposed by the Government to reduce the number of vacant properties on our high streets, but there is a need for a more thorough examination of the root causes behind these vacancies.” He also highlighted the rising operating costs that local shops and businesses face, making it increasingly difficult for them to continue trading and discouraging them from occupying new spaces.
Moreover, ACS has called upon the government to identify and crack down on rogue agents who exploit ratepayers and the system itself, taking advantage of its complexities to deceive businesses.
For further details, the full submission can be accessed here
