Rates relief boost for golf clubs and gyms

SNP ministers have rejected proposals to hike the business rates bills of swimming pools, gyms, golf clubs and other council ‘arms-length’ bodies – but private schools remain in the firing line.

Finance Secretary Derek Mackay said he has ruled out a suggestion by a Scottish Government-commissioned review to withdraw charity relief for bodies set up by local authorities to run public services – billed a ‘swim tax’ by critics.

He said he made the decision to ensure public services remain ‘affordable’. But he is still considering a recommendation from the Barclay Review to withdraw charitable relief from private schools.

Mr Mackay’s decision came ahead of a Conservative debate at Holyrood today, when opposition parties are expected to unite around a motion urging the Scottish Government to reject raising business rates for arms-length external organisations (ALEOs).

A decision on whether to force private schools to pay more is expected in the SNP’s Budget in a fortnight’s time.

Mr Mackay said: ‘I can confirm the rates relief will remain in place for qualifying facilities operated by council ALEOs.’

Tory finance spokesman Murdo Fraser said: ‘The Nationalists have been forced to listen, thanks to strong opposition from the Conservatives.’