Relief for Ayrshire’s small firms

Almost 2300 small businesses in South Ayrshire have seen their rates either abolished or substantially reduced.

That’s according to the SNP, who say their Small Business Bonus Scheme ( SBBS) is rewarding companies fighting to stay alive.

Across Scotland, the number of firms benefitting from the reduced rates has reached almost 100,000. And First Minister Nicola Sturgeon insists she will maintain the scheme should she be re- elected next year.

Ayrshire MSP Adam Ingram is now urging local companies to jump aboard and get some relief.

He said: “In difficult times when every penny counts almost 2300 small businesses in South Ayrshire have seen their rates bills abolished or substantially reduced thanks to this programme.

“The fact that there are now more businesses than ever before benefitting from the scheme is very good news and a sign of the Scottish Government’s commitment to supporting Scotland’s business sector through these difficult times.

“Small businesses are the lifeblood of communities and a key driver of the economic growth we need to deliver a fairer society.

“That is why in addition to the SBBS, every council in Scotland now has the power from to reduce business rates in their area, giving local communities more control of local key policies and providing more support for those businesses.”

Across South Ayrshire there has been an increase from 1625 businesses in 2008 to 2232 recipients of the scheme in 2015. The figures come as control of business rates is given to councils.