CALLS have been made for businesses to get better support after statistics revealed more than 2,000 local firms were still waiting on the outcome of their rates appeals.

The Non-Domestic Rates Revaluation Appeals report for the second quarter of 2018/19 revealed a total of 1,642 Renfrewshire businesses had still not heard the result of their appeals, as of the end of September.

Meanwhile, more than 400 businesses in East Renfrewshire were also waiting on a response.

Conservative MSP Maurice Golden, who represents both areas as part of his West Scotland remit, said the Scottish Government must speed up the appeal rates system.

Mr Golden added: “It is unacceptable more than 1,600 businesses in Renfrewshire and more than 400 in East Renfrewshire are stuck in no man’s land when it comes to the outcome of their business rate appeal.

“If the SNP want to show a clear sign of support for businesses, then they could start by speeding up the appeals process system.”

However, public finance minister Kate Forbes defended the government’s position.

She added: “We are doing all we can to support the wider Scottish economy and we provide the most competitive rates relief package in the UK, worth around £720million, including the Small Business Bonus Scheme, which alone lifts over 100,000 properties out of rates altogether.

“We are taking forward the recommendations of the independent Barclay Review on non-domestic rates, including reforming the appeals system, as a matter of priority. 

“The consultation closed in September and we are currently analysing the responses.”