Finance Minister has met with Belfast Chamber to
discuss proposed reforms to the business rating system and
encourage businesses to respond to the consultation on the
Business Growth Accelerator and Non-Domestic Vacant Rating
measures.
Speaking following the meeting, said: I welcomed the
opportunity to meet with the Belfast Chamber and discuss my
recently launched consultation on the Business Growth Accelerator
and Non-Domestic Vacant Rating and a number of business-related
issues.
I am acutely aware that businesses across our towns, cities and
high streets continue to face a challenging operating environment
but despite those challenges, businesses here continue to
innovate and break new ground, underpinning local employment,
local communities and our wider economy.
The Minister continued: My objective has always been a rating
system that is fair, one that supports public services but also
recognises the importance of business growth, investment and
regeneration. That is why last week I launched a consultation on
two important and related proposals: the introduction of a
Business Growth Accelerator and changes to Non-Domestic Vacant
Rating.
The proposed Business Growth Accelerator would provide temporary,
targeted relief for businesses making qualifying improvements to
their properties, while the suggested changes to Non-Domestic
Vacant Rating would aim to encourage the productive use of vacant
premises, reduce long-term vacancies, support high streets and
town centres, and better align the tax system with wider economic
and regeneration objectives.
I would urge all businesses and organisations to respond to the
consultation and share their views, helping to support growth
while maintaining fairness within the rating system.
Notes to editors:
1. You can submit your views on the consultation at: www.finance-ni.gov.uk/consultations/business-growth-accelerator-and-non-domestic-vacant-rating-ndvr-consultation.
The consultation will close on 23 September 2026.
