Council secures court victory over unpaid business rates

Southmill Properties Group had 14 liability orders secured by the council against it concerning properties on the town’s Wilson Street and Linthorpe Road.

More than £222,000 was owed on the former and £72,000 on the latter, with some debts dating back to 2015, a council statement said. Southmill was also ordered to pay £32,000 towards the council’s costs.

Magistrates rejected Southmill’s claim not to have received any summonses in nine years.

Nicky Walker, executive member for finance and governance, said: “We will always do all we can to support businesses in Middlesbrough, but this case sends out a clear message that we will also pursue unpaid debts on behalf of the public.

“Our officers have worked tirelessly to recover these significant debts which have been outstanding for a number of years. I’m delighted that with the support of our auditors Veritau and their investigations work that the courts have been robust in support of our approach.”