I know a lot of local businesspeople are worried about the business rate revaluation, and some are seeing big increases.
I recently met the Chancellor Philip Hammond and explained how the changes will affect businesses in Kent. With Shepherd Neame our largest local employer, I particularly focussed on the impact on our pubs. We also discussed seasonal businesses – like bulb growers – whose premises are not occupied all year round, but still have to pay business rates.
The Chancellor has promised to set out plans to help small businesses hardest hit by the changes in his upcoming Spring budget. I’m optimistic that these will benefit local businesses, but we’ll have to wait and see
