Surplus to Purpose

Surplus to Purpose found itself embroiled in a daunting ordeal concerning its business rates, thrust into a financial predicament with three outstanding invoices, each amounting to a staggering £40,000. Despite the absence of any relief, the situation exacerbates when they receive an unexpected invoice in November ’23, encompassing last year’s and this year’s business rates. Adding insult to injury, another invoice arrives, pre-empting next year’s dues, culminating in a daunting total of £120,000.

In a bid to alleviate this financial burden, the business promptly applies for relief, a benefit it’s entitled to as a registered not-for-profit social enterprise. However, bureaucratic mishaps plague their progress, with their application inexplicably misplaced by the council, leaving them in limbo for four long months until February ’24.

Despite these setbacks, the business perseveres, resorting to public outcry by featuring on BBC Look North and BBC Radio Leeds. Their efforts yield a meeting with council representatives, only to be offered a meagre £15,000 reduction, a gesture deemed insufficient as it only pertains to the current financial year, leaving the burden of past and future dues intact.

Moreover, the business asserts its stance by requesting a site inspection, underscoring the portion of their premises rendered unusable due to lack of power and lighting, thus challenging the rationale behind the exorbitant rates imposed.

Amidst the turmoil, local councillors attribute the stringent measures to a purported deficit of £10 billion from central government, presenting it as a necessary means of recouping funds. However, the business refutes such claims, emphasising their essential role in the community and the adverse ramifications of their potential closure.

Despite the adversity, a glimmer of hope emerged recently when the business finally achieves resolution through negotiations with the council and a pragmatic approach to their predicament. Securing significant rate relief, coupled with plans to register as a charity and downsize the operations. Grateful for the unwavering support from the community, the business expresses its heartfelt thanks, highlighting the successful fundraising endeavours and unwavering commitment to their mission of waste reduction and community support.