COUNCILLORS in Renfrewshire have backed a bid to boost trade on the high street.
The council unanimously supported a motion to back the Scottish Government's Fresh Start initiative, to grant business rate discounts to businesses that set up in empty shops.
A motion put forward by SNP councillors Andy Doig and Brian Lawson received the council's unanimous backing of the Fresh Start Initiative at the last meeting of the full council.
SNP Councillor Andy Doig, joint sponsor of the motion, said: "Fresh Start is being piloted through the Scottish Parliament by Local Government Minister and Renfrewshire North West MSP, Derek Mackay.
"The scheme, which becomes law in April 2013, will give those who wish to rent empty shops in our high streets 50% off their business rates."
Councillor Doig, who represents Johnstone North, Kilbarchan, and Lochwinnoch, added: "In a rare moment of unanimity our motion was passed without opposition by Renfrewshire Council and I am delighted as this represents a fresh start for a fresh year, for the local traders."
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