BUSINESSES affected by the foot and mouth outbreaks in West Devon are being advised to act urgently in seeking help and appeal against their business rates.
The borough is one of the worst hit areas in the country — and the borough council is advising it may be possible to temporarily reduce business ratable values to help ease the financial burden.
But action needs to be taken now to ensure relief can be applied from the beginning of the crisis in February.
Appeal applications must be with the valuation office by Saturday March 31.
Neil Williams, West Devon Borough Council chief accountant, said it is 'imperative' people move fast.
'We are trying to ensure that all businesses are aware of the appeals procedure. We are only too aware of the hardship that the foot and mouth crisis is causing.'
Anyone who needs any more information about the appeals should contact the council on 01822 813752.
Alternatively, appeals can be submitted via the internet — contact the valuation office directly at http://www.voa.gov.uk">www.voa.gov.uk