Belfast Council responds to Sandy Row’s request for rates relief, stating it lacks the authority to grant such exemptions
Belfast: City Hall has told Sandy Row representatives it can’t give them a rates cut. They simply don’t have that power.
Right now, Belfast City Council is exploring ways to help businesses in Sandy Row. This area has been struggling, with fewer than 30 businesses left.
In December, a committee agreed to look into forming a taskforce. This group would work with local partners to support the area’s businesses.
Recently, three workers from Sandy Row spoke to council members. They shared that their businesses have dropped by 30 to 40 percent since the Boyne Bridge closed.
Some even said the situation is worse than during Covid. It’s tough out there for them.
In Northern Ireland, businesses pay regional and district rates. The district rates help fund local services.
This week, council officials discussed a new motion from the DUP about rates relief for Sandy Row businesses. Councillor Tracy Kelly is behind this motion.
The motion highlights the struggles businesses face due to the Boyne Bridge closure. It calls for a rates break to help them survive.
Councillor Kelly’s earlier motion stressed the importance of small businesses. It noted that infrastructure changes can hurt local businesses.
The council is also looking into reopening the Boyne Bridge and forming a taskforce with various partners to support local businesses.
At a recent meeting, council officers mentioned that the City Growth and Regeneration Committee had already discussed this issue.
They noted that while the council can’t grant rates exemptions, they will explore options available to Land and Property Services.
In the past, the council has negotiated rates relief for businesses. They decided to close the motion specifically asking for rates relief since it was already covered.
During the meeting, Sinn Féin Councillor Christina Black expressed her support for a broader discussion. She acknowledged the pressures on Sandy Row businesses.
She also pointed out that other areas, like the west side of Durham Street, need attention too. There are businesses there that also face challenges.
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