Shop owner hits out at decision over rates relief

The owner of a Donside furniture shop has told of his disappointment after retailers were not given the same rates relief as the hospitality industry or business offices.

James A Gordon and Sons has been a landmark on Alford’s Main Street for the best part of a century, first opening in 1923.

But next year owner Allan Gordon will close the business, blaming the decline of shopping in the town after the recent closure of local banks.

His large shop has been on the market for many months but there has been little interest shown.

Mr Gordon’s last year in business will be further blighted after he discovered his rates are to go up 64% – from £33,000 to £54,000 – and will not be eligible for the capping announced on Tuesday.

The 64-year-old is disappointed the capping does not apply to retailers.

He said: “We are facing a 64% rise. I don’t see how they think this kind of increase will help anything given the situation there is just now in the north-east.

“I’m retiring next year anyway because there is just no money in retail now.

“After the banks left and with the effect of the oil downturn there just isn’t enough coming in any more.

“My grandfather originally opened the business, I’ve worked here since I was in primary school and it’s the only thing my son Andrew has done too.

“We had made the decision before that we were closing – but these rises won’t help Alford, which is already dying.”

His son Andrew added: “It is very disappointing that retailers haven’t been given the same package as the hospitality industry or offices.

“We are trying to get our rates re-assessed and are meeting with the assessor this week.”

North-east Conservative MSP Alexander Burnett said: “This is yet another example of the potentially devastating impact that these business rates rises are having on the northeast economy.”