£2m in rates relief for firms hit by Sauchiehall St fires
ALMOST £2 million is being used to give business rate relief for companies affected by the fires at the Glasgow School of Art Mackintosh building and Victoria’s Nightclub.
The Scottish Government has announced approximately
£1.85 million of its Fire Recovery Fund will be used by Glasgow City Council to provide business rates relief and support recovery efforts following the fire in June.
No firms in the immediate fire cordon area, or eligible companies in Sauchiehall Street, will have to pay business rates for the period of January to March.
Some 200 businesses in the eligible area have already received more than £3m from the £5 m fund, which was announced by Finance and Economy Secretary Derek Mackay in July.
The recently renovated Mackintosh library had been due to reopen next year.
In addition, a £150,000 grant will be given to the Centre for Contemporary Arts to assist with its recovery plan.
The Scottish Government has already offered £20,000 of financial support to businesses directly affected by the fires and £10,000 to others in the area impacted by a reduction in shoppers.
It has also expanded its contribution to hardship rates relief and, in partnership with the council, has created an emergency fund to support displaced households.
Mr Mackay said: “This relief will provide much-needed breathing space while businesses resume trade and allow them to focus on the commercial opportunities of the festive period in the knowledge that they will not face any additional business rates liabilities related to the period between January to March. The devastating fires at the Glasgow School of Art and near Victoria’s Nightclub have had a significant and lasting impact on businesses, residents and the Sauchiehall Street economy alike.”
Glasgow City Council leader Susan Aitken said: “The Sauchiehall Street fires had a huge impact on the city, most especially on those who live and work in the vicinity.
“In response to these tragic and traumatising events, and in partnership with the Scottish Government, we ensured local businesses received the support needed at a crucial time. Businesses are the lifeblood of Sauchiehall Street and stability continues to be their overriding priority.”