Nurseries in Wales Permanently Exempt from Business Rates
Historic Change for Early Years Sector
The Welsh government has announced that nurseries in Wales will be permanently exempt from paying business rates. The change, which comes into effect in April 2023, is a major victory for the early years sector, which has been campaigning for business rates relief for many years.
Financial Relief
The business rates exemption will provide much-needed financial relief to nurseries, which have been struggling with rising costs in recent years. The Welsh government estimates that the change will save the sector around £3 million a year.
Increased Access to Childcare
The business rates exemption is also expected to increase access to childcare in Wales. By reducing the cost of running a nursery, the change will make it easier for new nurseries to open and for existing nurseries to expand.
Support for Working Families
The increased access to childcare will benefit working families in Wales. With more affordable childcare options available, parents will be able to return to work or increase their working hours, knowing that their children are being well cared for.
Investment in the Early Years Sector
The business rates exemption is a clear sign of the Welsh government's commitment to the early years sector. The change will help to ensure that all children in Wales have access to high-quality early education and childcare.
Benefits of the Business Rates Exemption
- Reduced costs for nurseries
- Increased access to childcare
- Support for working families
- Investment in the early years sector
Conclusion
The business rates exemption for nurseries in Wales is a major victory for the early years sector. The change will provide much-needed financial relief to nurseries, increase access to childcare, and support working families. It is a clear sign of the Welsh government's commitment to the early years sector and to ensuring that all children in Wales have access to high-quality early education and childcare.