Business rates

Desperatelyneedhelpnow

I own a pub and due to unfortunate circumstances, I had to close before the lockdown actually began. The council have told me that i don't qualify for the suspended business rates during this financial year as my pub was already closed. I am trying to sell my pub and was in the process of selling it before the lockdown happened, but the buyer pulled out & now I am struggling to sell it. However, all the while, I am now racking up huge debt from the council for the business rates. Can anyone advise if this is right or fair? I have no business here & I really am struggling to get any money together, so I really cannot afford to have this debt. Please help.

MattMattMattUK

If the pub was closed before the first lockdown then the council are correct, you are not eligible for the temporary suspension of business rates.

If the premises is empty then you can get three months relief on business rates.
https://www.gov.uk/apply-for-business-rate-relief/exempted-buildings-and-empty-buildings-relief