Clwyd West AM Darren Millar has challenged the First Minister to scrap business rates for small high street businesses in Wales.
High streets across Wales are struggling in the current economic downturn, with as many as one in five shops closed in town centres in North Wales, including in Colwyn Bay in Darren’s constituency.
Speaking after the exchange in the Senedd, Darren said:
“Wales has the least competitive business rates environment in the UK so it’s no wonder that our high streets are suffering and more and more shops are empty and boarded up.
“Town centres in Ruthin, Abergele and Colwyn Bay need more support and a reduction in business rates would be a big boost for them.
“Empty shops are a symptom of decline, can be a security concern, and can create a downward cycle in the attractiveness of town centres to new businesses and shoppers.
“Small businesses are the backbone of Welsh economy, they need all the help they can get in the current economic climate.”
The First Minister declined to support the calls.
