CONCERNS AIRED
Oct 22 2008 by Peter McCusker, The Journal
CONCERNS have been aired by some city centre traders and the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) as to the necessity of Newcastle’s proposed BID.
On Nun Street The Greenmarket Cobbler John Middleton expressed his opposition.
“We’re not happy with the levels of service we get from the council who get our rates and I’m totally opposed to having to pay further cash to another body.”
Mr Middleton said he had been waiting two years for work to be carried out on nearby drains.
Rob McCartney, who runs the nearby Maverick clothing store, also on Nun Street says he pays £8,500 a year in rates to the city council and while not totally opposed to the idea, has concerns about exactly what he would get for a further £85 a year.
“I think the rates are too high as it is and my support for the proposal will depend on what we will get for the extra money.
“There have been a lot of promises made over the years about improving the area but there are still a lot of issues that need looking at.” He cited problems with parking and pub-goers congregating on the pavements.
Colin Stratton, FSB Regional chairman for the North East is already concerned about the lack of rate relief in general for SMEs and if Newcastle becomes a BID area he fears smaller retailers are going to be pushed away from the high street and the popular areas and into more desolate areas.
He said: "The Federation of Small Businesses are concerned in the light of the Newcastle BID proposals that small businesses will not be able to find affordable and temporary office space and, furthermore, when the economy does return to full steam there will be a dearth of commercial properties on the market.
“This can only result in a slowdown in the regeneration of deprived areas and higher rents when demand begins to recover.
“Once again it seems like the Government are more than happy to contradict its commitment to delivering sustainable communities and its promise to support business.”
I’m totally opposed to having to pay further cash to another body
