Higher business rates as a result of re-valuation are not only a threat to high streets, it is also a threat to rural enterprises such as horse riding schools according to the British Horse Riding Society and Vale MP Alun Cairns.
The British Horse Society invited Mr Cairns to discuss the issue at the Argae House Riding School near Dinas Powys. Sarah Phillips, director of the society in Wales, explained to Mr Cairns that hundreds of riding schools may close due to higher rates.
The periodic re-valuation of business rates has become an important local issue across the country, with many small businesses expecting to see their costs increase. The new rateable values, and thus new rates, will come into effect from April next year.
Mrs Phillips said, “The percentage increase in rateable value for riding schools and livery yards is considerably more than the average increase for all businesses in the same region.
“There is often an assumption that all those involved with horses are wealthy, this is most certainly not the case. Many families have invested all they have in their small riding school businesses, and now face going bust.
“I know of many riding schools that are already closing in anticipation of the higher rates.”
Vale MP Alun Cairns said, “It is not only High Streets that lose out as a result of higher rates. I am very concerned about the impact on other rural enterprises such as riding schools and equestrian centres.
“These businesses are an important part of rural life, and a vital part of the rural economy.”
Mr Cairns is lobbying the Welsh Government to establish a more generous rate-relief package, similar to the scheme that will be available in England from the start of April next year.
He said, “In England, from April, businesses with a rateable value below £12,000 will pay no business rates, and those with a value up to £18,000 will have their rates significantly reduced. I would like to see the Welsh Government follow suit to protect important small businesses, such as equestrian centres, here in Wales.”