The TaxPayers’ Alliance was joined by local businesspeople in Southend on Thursday to campaign for a freeze in Business Rates this week’s budget.
Business rates increased by 4.5 per cent in 2011, 5.6 per cent the year after, and are due to increase by a further 2.6 per cent in April. High rates are already crippling high streets and businesses, but the government’s plans for a third consecutive big rate hike will only lead to more empty shops and fewer work opportunities.
What’s more, the end of relief on empty properties is hurting property owners, many of whom invested in properties to provide income for their retirement. Empty commercial and industrial properties are now subject to full business rates, even if owners are not making any money from them. This has to end.
Here are few things you can do to help us win this campaign:
· Write to your MP. We’ve made it quick and easy for you. Just visit freezebusinessrates.org
· Write to your local newspaper to raise awareness of the campaign. Make sure you mention freezebusinessrates.org
· Post a link to freezebusinessrates.org on Facebook and Twitter