"Analysis by Ridgefield Consulting, an Oxfordshire-based accountancy firm, reveals that hundreds of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across the county remain disproportionately burdened by the current system. The current Labour government faces mounting pressure to reform business rates and make them 'fairer' in the upcoming budget, while the opposition Conservatives have pledged to abolish business rates altogether if elected at the next general election."
"According to ONS data, there are over 32,000 rateable commercial premises across Oxfordshire, spanning retail, hospitality, offices, and professional services. However, Ridgefield Consulting's analysis of local authority data shows that: Around 25% of businesses currently benefit from Small Business Rate Relief (SBRR) Only 10% receive the Retail, Hospitality and Leisure Relief (RHLR) Despite Oxfordshire's strong and diverse economy, only a fraction of businesses are able to access these reliefs."
"Complex relief criteria, inconsistent property classification, and limited awareness also prevent businesses from claiming. Many small businesses, particularly those leasing through managed properties, may not even realise they qualify for relief. Others lose eligibility when expanding, as current rules can remove SBRR entirely once a second property is opened or the total rateable value exceeds the threshold. This creates what Treasury reports describe as a "cliff edge", discouraging businesses from expanding locally."
Ridgefield Consulting analysis finds hundreds of Oxfordshire SMEs face disproportionate business rates burdens. There are over 32,000 rateable commercial premises across Oxfordshire, yet only around 25% benefit from SBRR and 10% receive RHLR. High property values, especially in Oxford city centre, push many premises above eligibility thresholds. Complex relief criteria, inconsistent property classification, and limited awareness prevent claims. Rules that remove relief when businesses expand create a 'cliff edge' discouraging growth. Political debate centers on reform: Labour is under pressure to make rates fairer while Conservatives pledge abolition if elected. Delay risks lost benefits for the business community.
Read at London Business News | Londonlovesbusiness.com
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