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New builds could get one-year rates delay

Developer Malcolm Allan demolished a new block of offices in Dyce, blaming the cost of rates soaring before he could get tenants in.
Developer Malcolm Allan demolished a new block of offices in Dyce, blaming the cost of rates soaring before he could get tenants in.

A one-year delay on rates being charged for new buildings or extensions has been recommended by the Barclay review.

Group review chairman Ken Barclay suggested the creation of a Business Growth Accelerator would stimulate investment and growth.

But last night, property developer Alan Massie said the review fell short of what was needed and dismissed the levies as a “tax against Aberdeen”.

His claims come just weeks after developer Malcolm Allan demolished a new block of offices in Dyce, who blamed the cost of rates soaring before he could get tenants in.

Mr Massie said: “We used to spend millions a year on speculative development but we have had to stop investing now.

“I think the fundamental problem with the report is that Barclay hasn’t been asked to dig deep enough, you can see that this is just tinkering around the edges rather than addressing the real underlying issues.

“You have to question why it is Aberdeen and the north-east in particular being hammered- I hope there isn’t anything sinister in it.”

But Banffshire and Buchan Coast MSP Stewart Stevenson welcomed the recommendation.

He said: “This could encourage new start-up businesses as well as helping already established firms to improve their office space.

“The downturn in oil and gas has created an opportunity for diversification and many smaller businesses have set-up.

“This will allow them a leeway while they build up their businesses.”