Decision details

Consideration was given to a report which provided an update on progress being made with regard to a new Empty Property Relief Policy on Non-Domestic Rates.  It was noted that the purpose of this is to incentivise the owners of empty business premises in Argyll and Bute to do all that they can to bring the property back into use. 

Decision

The Council –

1.    approved Option A, Empty Property Relief provisions as outlined in paragraph 3.19 of the report;

2.    agreed the creation of an Empty Property Officer post for a period of 2 years as outlined in paragraph 3.21 of the report; and

3.    agreed that the remaining Empty Property Relief funding is used towards a Business Grant Scheme with officers to bring forward the detail to the Environment, Development and Infrastructure Committee meeting in March 2024 for approval.

(Reference:  Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Financial Services, dated 25 October 2023, submitted)