Jeremy Balfour Scottish Conservative MSP for the Lothian Region has expressed his opposition to the proposed changes to Business Rates for the leisure industry, including local sports centres, as outlined in the recent Barclay Report. Current legislation grants Leisure Trusts charitable relief which allows them to offer a range of sporting activities and ensures these services are available to everyone in the community.
Commenting, Jeremy said
‘It is important that these services should be allowed to continue with their current level of business rate relief, to ensure the future survival of these local organisations who are working to make a positive and healthy impact in their communities. Any change to the business rates will have a detrimental impact on the range and scope of the services offered. I therefore strongly oppose any changes and will fight to ensure local sports centres are able to continue to support and provide active and healthy activities in their local communities.’