News

In response to Coronavirus, the Scottish Government announces a £320 million package of support for Scottish businesses (17 March 2020)

New measures to limit the impact of Coronavirus on the business community in Scotland have been announced by the Scottish Government.

The following steps will be put in place to support businesses during the 2020-21 financial year:

• A 75% rates relief for retail, hospitality and leisure sectors with a rateable value of less than £69,000 from 1 April 2020.
• An £80 million fund to provide grants of at least £3,000 to small businesses in sectors facing the worst economic impact of Coronavirus.
• 1.6% rates relief for all properties across Scotland, effectively reversing the planned below inflation uplift in the poundage from 1 April 2020.
• A fixed rates relief of up to £5,000 for all pubs with a rateable value of less than £100,000 from 1 April 2020.

The Finance Secretary will also write to all local authorities urging them to respond positively to requests from rate payers for payment deferrals for a fixed period.

If you would like to speak to the Coronavirus team, the Scottish Government business helpline number has been set up to deal with enquiries on 0300 303 0660, open Monday to Friday 8.30am to 5.30pm.

https://www.gov.scot/news/gbp-320-million-package-of-support-for-businesses/