Local Assembly Member Paul Davies has responded to the Welsh Government's announcement of a targeted high street rates relief scheme by saying that there are still many questions over the scheme's eligibility criteria. The Welsh Government has announced a support package for high street businesses whose rates are rising due to a revaluation of their premises.
Mr Davies said, "Whilst I welcome any targeted intervention to support businesses that will see a rise in their business rates, the Welsh Government's package of support doesn't clearly define who is eligible for this support. There are businesses across Pembrokeshire affected by an increase in their business rates that aren't necessarily in the middle of a high street and it's not clear whether they will be supported or not."
"Local authorities will need clear guidance from the Welsh Government to ensure that small firms get the support they need. This scheme will need to be in place within weeks, putting councils under significant pressure. Of course, any additional money to support businesses is welcome but with the clock ticking, local authorities, and more importantly, local businesses need to know who is eligible to receive this support and who is not."
