Empty historical buildings in Falkirk will soon face a change in their rates status as councillors have approved the discontinuation of 100 per cent rates relief. The decision comes in response to concerns that the existing relief was acting as a disincentive for building owners to engage with their properties effectively.
During a recent Falkirk Council executive meeting, members reached a consensus to halt long-term rates relief for non-domestic properties, including listed buildings. The council believes that this alteration will provide owners with a stronger motivation to revitalise and utilise their properties, preventing them from laying disused for extended periods.
Currently, properties designated as listed buildings, like the iconic Airth Castle, enjoy full rates relief which has drawn criticism due to instances of neglect and vandalism. The leader of the council, Councillor Cecil Meiklejohn, expressed that this new policy aims to cut costs and stimulate growth in the region, addressing a crucial need for development.
Starting from April, full indefinite rates relief will no longer be granted to any property. Additionally, the minimum relief level will be reduced from 10 per cent to five per cent, with only exceptions being properties that are legally uninhabitable or under compulsory purchase orders. To encourage the revitalisation of long-term empty properties, owners undertaking this process will receive a 50 per cent discount for the first six months and become eligible for ‘Fresh Start Relief’, potentially granting a year of 100 per cent relief.
Previously overseen by the Scottish Government, Empty Property Relief was devolved to local authorities in April 2023. While some councils swiftly implemented changes, Falkirk Council conducted a thorough review, monitoring the impact in other localities closely.
In a report to the executive, officers highlighted successful implementation in other areas, such as Aberdeen, where the policy acted as a catalyst for economic rejuvenation in town centres. Despite concerns raised by Councillor Jack Redmond about potential challenges in renovating and selling listed buildings, Council officer Paul Ferguson affirmed that the move aims to deter neglect and disrepair.
The meeting also assured support for businesses struggling to pay rates until properties are sold. By reducing the total cost of empty relief from £1.3 million to around £1 million, the proposed policy adjustment is expected to be cost-effective due to a Scottish Government grant covering the variance.
Rate payers benefiting from full rates relief will be notified of the upcoming changes. The success of the new policy will be continuously reviewed to ensure its effectiveness for Falkirk Council and its community.
Insights and Summary:
The decision by Falkirk Council to discontinue full rates relief for empty listed buildings marks a significant shift towards revitalising historical properties in the region. By incentivising owners to actively engage with these buildings, the council aims to foster economic growth and prevent dereliction. The move reflects a strategic approach towards balancing heritage conservation with practical utility, ensuring that these buildings contribute positively to the local landscape. It also underlines the importance of ongoing evaluation and adaptation of policies to address emerging challenges and opportunities in urban development and preservation.