A TRADE association has praised Barnsley Council’s support package for local businesses and has called on other councils across the UK to follow suit.
Last week, the council approved its annual budget which included a £5m scheme offering 100 per cent business rate relief for qualifying retail, leisure and hospitality firms from April.
It’s believed that more than 630 businesses in the town qualify for the rate relief.
Andrew Goodacre, CEO of the British Independent Retailers Association (BIRA), praised the council for their work.
He said: “We strongly applaud Barnsley Council for this exemplary initiative that directly addresses the mounting challenges facing our high streets.
“This is exactly the type of support that independent retailers desperately need in the current economic climate.
“We are now calling on councils across the UK to follow Barnsley’s lead and implement similar support packages.
“The triple impact of rising costs, cuts to business rate relief, and increased employer National Insurance contributions has created a perfect storm for retailers.
“Barnsley has shown leadership by listening to its business community and taking decisive action.
“Every council in Britain should be examining how they can replicate this model.”
