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Council rejects bid for rates relief on historic Moray sites

With its position and commanding place in pre Reformation times, Elgin's windows would have been vibrant. Image: Gordon Lennox
With its position and commanding place in pre Reformation times, Elgin's windows would have been vibrant. Image: Gordon Lennox

Moray Council has rejected a request to lift business rates on some of the region’s most cherished landmarks.

Historic Environment Scotland (HES) applied for the local authority to allow it to run sites like Elgin Cathedral, the Dallas Dhu Distillery and Balvenie Castle for free.

HES also asked for rates relief on stores used for the 13th century cathedral, a workshop in the town and the 12th century Spynie Palace outside Elgin.

The public body is already granted an 80% reduction on non-domestic rates for its commercial sites, but asked that the discount be extended.

Representatives argued that the levy should be wiped because it is a registered charity not run for profit, and is concerned with education.

But council boss, Stewart Cree, said he had “no appetite” to grant the application.

He said: “These venues are significantly discounted as it stands, and we have a difficult financial period in front of us.”

Elgin City South councillor, Graham Leadbitter, attempted to rally some support for HSE – pointing out that the sum involved equated to just £682.

Councillor Leadbitter added: “This organisation’s work is critical to Moray’s tourism offer, which is an important part of the council’s economic development strategy.”

Speyside Glenlivet member, Pearl Paul, added that the sum was little in comparison to the economic benefits a venue like Elgin Cathedral brings.

But Councillor Cree maintained his opposition, saying the issue was “a matter of principle”.

Forres representative, George Alexander, said the group already receives the same amount of relief as charity shops and feared that granting their request could lead to similar approaches.

He added: “If we did grant this request, charity shops would be entitled to that too.

“If you look after the pennies, the pounds look after themselves.”

The local authority’s taxation manager, James Taylor, prepared a report setting out the request.

Mr Taylor stated that the neighbouring Highlands and Aberdeenshire councils had turned down similar requests.

HES yesterday declined to comment on the council’s decision.

The body was established in 2014 by the Historic Environment Scotland Act, to look after and promote the nation’s heritage sites.