Isle of Bute
BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT
Bute Businesses Driving Change
Useful Information
for Bute Businesses
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The BID team were asked at a sector meeting to find out more about the increased business rates and if we can help the businesses on Bute in any way. After some research and discussions with the Council we have discovered that businesses have to tackle this as individuals and there is was a deadline for appeals, which was July 31st 2023.
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If a business wanted to challenge the assessment of their rateable value (NDR) then the particular business had to raise a proposal with the Assessor at the Dunbartonshire and Argyll and Bute Valuation Joint Board
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There are documents available on the Scottish Assessors portal called practice notes and these set out generally how the Assessor made their decision, they are available per sector, here is a link to the notes 2023 Practice Notes – Scottish Assessors (saa.gov.uk)
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Please have a read.
There are a number of specialist firms who deal with NDR proposals and appeals who businesses also may wish to consider:
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Avison Young
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CBRE
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Gerald Eve
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Montagu Evans
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Ryden
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Savills
Bute BID have also written to the below expressing concerns:
Argyll and Bute Council and the Minister for Business, Trade, Tourism and Enterprise
Increased Business Rates
Eyebright & Energy Saving Opportunities
The Energy Bill Relief Scheme, introduced by the government in October 2022 to support non-domestic energy customers, will end on the 31st March 2023. The new Energy Bills Discount Scheme (EBDS) will be introduced on the 1st April 2023 for 12 months, but there’s concern the new scheme doesn’t go far enough to support businesses. Utility consultancy firm and BID partner, Eyebright, is urging business decision-makers to take action and speak to their utility consultant sooner rather than later to begin sourcing a new deal. A fixed rate contract offers budget security in an unpredictable market and can empower organisations to make informed decisions about how their business will operate for the next 12 months.
Find out about Energy Bill Relief Scheme, energy procurement, water contracts and auditing, renewable energy or compliance then we would encourage you to arrange a free consultation with Eyebright.
Further information on the Proposed 'Visitor Levy' in Scotland
Overview
https://www.visitscotland.org/news/2023/visitor-levy-legislation
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Scottish Government have now concluded their public consultation and will be reviewing responses. The STA have been working with them through an advisory committee representing the needs of the tourism sector. This document sets out what is proposed and their current thoughts which have been fed into Scottish Government.
If Parliament pass this bill, Argyll and Bute Council will then consult with relevant businesses and representatives in the area. 18 months is allowed for this process after which elected members will vote on whether or not to implement - although they have publicly said they are in favour.
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So in theory, it could be 2025/6 before implementation if it passes all stages.
Developing My Leadership
Fyne Futures Ltd. have secured funding via Skills Development Scotland to run a Social Enterprise Leaders Programme on Bute for the members of their team. They are working with Social Enterprise Academy to deliver the programme.
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There are additional fully funded spaces available which may be of interest to our BID members.
The dates for the 3 sessions are:
6th and 7th September 2023
4th and 5th October 2023
1st and 2nd November 2023
Beyond Procurement
Free Support for YOU and YOUR MEMBERS to tackle the cost of climate crisis. Market leading support from the experts in cost, Carbon and waste reduction.
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In partnership with Yell.com, Climate Action for Associations and HSBC, the team at 'Beyond Procurement' would like to invite your BID to join the UK BID Member Support Scheme, with a comprehensive package of free support available to you and your members.
Argyll & Bute Council
Short Term Lets Licence
Argyll and Bute Council have assembled a team to work on the applications for the short term lets licence scheme which is required by the Scottish Government legislation.
If you are starting up a short term let business, or are already running one, here is information on what you should do to ensure you are operating legally.
Financial support and grants
for your business
Argyll and Bute Council has a range of schemes providing financial
assistance for businesses based in Argyll and Bute.
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Business Gateway Local Growth Accelerator Programme
The programme includes fully funded specialist advice on a range of topics and 50% grant funding up to £5,000 to support your growth or COVID recovery plans. Find out more at Business Gateway Local Growth Accelerator Programme (argyll-bute.gov.uk)
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Small Business Development Grant 2022
Grant funding to help your micro or small business based in Argyll and Bute to develop. Grants of 75% of costs up up to £3,000 are available. Find out more about the Small Business Development Grant.
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Business Start-Up Grant 2022
Grant funding to help your new business to start up and establish in Argyll and Bute. Grants of up to £3,000 are available, phased across three payments. Find out more about the Business Start-Up Grant.
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Help with business rates
There are a number of relief schemes available which you may be eligible for - find out more details and apply at Help with business rates (argyll-bute.gov.uk)
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Find Business Support Scotland
To find out about other support from across Scotland’s public sector, visit Find business support in Scotland - Find Business Support. You can see your options for funding, advice, help and more all in a single location and sign up for email alerts on the latest updates.