BHS lead campaign for a fair deal on Business Rates for the Equestrian Industry
Friday 18 November 2016
The BHS are taking the lead on behalf of the BEF member bodies in respect of campaigning for a fair deal on Business Rates for all riding schools and livery yards. Over the past 12 months they have contributed to the Government consultation, Reform of Business Rates, on behalf of their members and the equestrian industry.
On 30 September the Valuation Office Agency (VOA) published the Rateable Values for all businesses which will come into force on 1 April 2017. The increase in rateable values for riding schools and livery yards is far greater than any other business type in the same geographical region. In some instances the increase has been as much as 300%. This rise in rateable value will result in an increase in the business rates payable. In many cases this may be more than is financially sustainable for the business.
The BHS have also received many enquiries from equestrian venues who will also see a significant rise in their rateable value. Further investigation shows that many professional riders and racehorse trainers will also be adversely affected.
The briefing note on the link below explains, in more detail, the current situation and the action plan in place. There is also a table comparing the increase in rateable value for riding schools and livery yards compared to other businesses in the same region.
It is important that need all equestrian businesses and riding centres, of whatever type, are aware of these issues and that it will no doubt affect them and their business. British Showjumping are working in collaboration with the BHS to this end with a view to encouraging anyone who is affected to write to their MP. All MPs in England and Wales have already received a letter from the BHS drawing their attention to the impact that the increase in Rateable Values will have on the riding school and livery yard industry and so far they have received a positive response with MPs taking the issue up with the Chancellor.
Please can you share this information amongst your own networks so as to ensure as may people are reached as possible. The BHS is more than happy to answer any queries from anyone who has a concern.
The links below illustrate a sample wording to send to your MP along with a table of MP’s and Rateable Value data in addition to a link to the Briefing Document. Should you have any further queries please contact Sarah Phillips at the BHS at sarah.phillips@bhs.org.uk.
Sample Wording to MP - Click here
Table of MP's and Rateable Value data - Click here
Briefing Document - Click here
