Call to investigate diverting paid-back business rate support to small Moray firms
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MORAY Council has been urged to investigate whether government cash support being paid back by major retailers could be given to local authorities to further support local business and help protect jobs.
At a full meeting of Moray Council on Wednesday, December 16, Conservative group leader Councillor Tim Eagle urged the council leader to engage with both the Scottish Government and Cosla on the matter.
Cllr Eagle (Buckie) said: "Recently a wide range of major retailers have offered to pay back business rate support given during the Covid-19 pandemic.
"The sum could extend to near £2 million in Moray alone.
"Whilst it is great that businesses like supermarkets are in a position to do this, many smaller businesses still face very difficult circumstances.
"Following a Conservative motion to produce a local economic recovery plan in an effort to support businesses and jobs, Moray Council adopted a local plan which is now in action.
"However, if it was possible to keep locally any return of funds then that could go towards these continuing efforts to support local businesses and communities."
He added: "There are many calls for funding but it is vital Moray has the money required to protect local people and their jobs.
"If this £2 million is possible, then I urge the leader of the council to act now before it is too late and the money is gone."
