9 March 2010

Consultation for local tourism businesses

Local MSP Margaret Smith has sent a survey to businesses in Edinburgh West after research conducted revealed that business rates for many Scottish hotels are set to rise by tens of thousands of pounds on April 1 this year.

Margaret has contacted local businesses to find out what impact the increased rates will have on their business and what can be done to support them.

Commenting, Ms Smith said:

"I want to find out what can be done to help businesses in Edinburgh West, which are facing massive increases in their rates bills this year.  Some hotels are seeing their bills go up by as much as 120%.

"Many businesses are already struggling as a result of the economic downturn.  Now the Scottish Government has chosen to hit hotels with the full increase in just one year.

"I am very worried that without a transition scheme like that introduced in England, which brings the changes in slowly, Scottish businesses will be put at a competitive disadvantage.

"I am consulting local businesses to find out what help they need so they don't suffer under the full force of these rate rises.

"I will work as hard as we can with the businesses affected to see if we can persuade the Scottish Government, even at this late stage, to agree to a transition period.

“Hotels in Edinburgh West are the lifeblood of the community, bringing jobs and tourism to the area.  I will listen to their concerns and do all I can to help them during this difficult time."