Bolton College appoints agent for ratings work

Bolton Community College has appointed Knight Frank to advise on its rating revaluation.

The announcement comes as the 2005 rating revaluation period ends on the 31 March 2010 and the next general rating revaluation takes effect on 1 April this year, when all commercial and non-domestic properties will adopt new rate assessments, which may lead to changes in rate liabilities.

Martin Howard, partner at Knight Frank, said: "We have become recognised by many educational institutions as having the capability and expertise to advise them on how best to challenge their assessments. On behalf of a number of these clients, we have already negotiated significant reductions in rating valuations and negotiations on behalf of the others remain ongoing.

"Organisations still have time to challenge their assessments, even a small reduction could be worthwhile as the refund will be backdated, in some instances, as far back as 1 April 2005. This is an excellent opportunity for businesses to explore ways of reducing their overheads in the current tough economic climate."

Knight Frank's rating team now advises ten colleges across the North West, following this latest appointment.