Scotland expected to follow England in empty rates legislation

In Scotland the proposals for a “Tesco Tax” or an additional levy on large food stores and retail was kicked out by the Scottish Parliament last week. This left the Scottish Finance Secretary with a shortfall of circa £30 million in next year’s budget. The bad news is he is now considering “harmonising” with England and from next April Scotland will follow England and adopt the same empty property provisions. This will see empty rates relief on office and retail increase from the 50% rates currently payable to 100% and industrial property increase from 0% payable to 100%.

This is something that we have been expecting and if you have empty property in Scotland you should be preparing for the increase. Please call me if you would like information on your rates liabilities in Scotland.

Fiona Kelly
fkelly@dohertybaines.com