East Riding Rates Increase Could Force Some Out Of Business

Campaigners are warning that businesses employing thousands in the tourist industry across the East Riding are likely to suffer under business rate changes due to come into force in April.

Figures from the East Riding Council’s Business Rate team show that there is also the fear that nurseries and car parks will be hit by draconian increases forcing some to go out of business.

Speaking about the increase in business rates , Beverley Labour Party’s George McManus said;

“It’s good news that the caravan industry is picking up and the falling value of the pound will make holidays in the UK more attractive to visitors from abroad. But every silver lining has a cloud.”

“With Camp sites, hotels, car parking and even beach huts being hit by big increases the benefits might be short lived.”

“The ill timed rate re-evaluation means many businesses will be hit. Set against the backdrop of uncertainty because of Brexit, many are facing increased costs and maybe even being forced to close.”

Town centre businesses are already facing tough time on the high street. Competition from charity organisations who have very low over heads are making harder for retailers to compete.

Internet shopping and out of town shopping, like Flemingate in Beverley coupled with high parking charges are all contributing factors for retailers who are struggling to earn a living.

However figures provided show that it is tourism based businesses and nurseries that face the some of the highest increases to their business rates.