Bira welcomes business rates revaluation postponement in Wales

The British Retailers Association (Bira) has welcomed the decision by the Welsh government to delay the revaluation of business rates. 

The announcement follows a similar ruling made in England on 6 May, which resulted in the government scrapping a bill to reevaluate business rates in 2021.

The decision to postpone the revaluation in England, made following pressure from Bira and Altus Group, will help reduce uncertainty for firms affected by the impact of Covid-19.

Following the decision to do the same in Wales, Andrew Goodacre, Bira’s CEO, said: “We are delighted with this common sense decision, following the lead set by the UK government.

“Rates can only be reassessed once we understand the impact in rental values following Covid-19.”

The news comes as Bira created a five-step guide to help independent retailers open again with confidence later this month.

The five-step guide to a Covid-secure reopening takes members through what they need to do to be safe and compliant ahead of reopening on 15 June .

It also contains valuable guidance for those already allowed to trade – steps such as completing a risk assessment.