Tribunals · North Northamptonshire Council · 2017 rating list

Weetabix Ltd, Earlstrees Road, NN17 4AZ

Factory and premises Decided 11 August 2025 CHG101105726 Rabbette Chartered Surveyors

OutcomeAllowed in partThe tribunal reduced the rateable value, but by less than the ratepayer sought.
Original RV£290,000
Ratepayer sought£195,000
VO conceded first£267,500−8% before the hearing
Tribunal decided£257,500£20/m²

Figures are as stated in the decision; a dash means the document does not state that figure.

What was argued and what the tribunal found

The appellant, a cereal manufacturer, challenged the rateable value of its factory and premises, initially seeking £185,000 (later revised to £195,000), arguing for higher obsolescence allowances on plant and machinery, increased end allowances for the split-site layout, and exclusion of the fire sprinkler system as non-rateable. The tribunal found the sprinkler system was not rateable as it protected personnel and goods in manufacturing operations involving explosive wheat dust, and agreed a 10% combined end allowance for split site and mixed ages was reasonable, but rejected the higher obsolescence claim as the plant was still operational on the material date. The tribunal reduced the RV from £290,000 to £257,500, allowing the appeal in part.

Summary generated from the decision text and checked against it. The appellant was Weetabix Ltd, represented.

Grounds argued

  • Valuation method
  • Quantum or end allowance
  • Relief or exemption · decisive
Evidence
Expert report
Cases cited
Monsanto PLC v. Farris (VO) [1998] RA217; Hays Business Services Ltd. v. Raley (VO) [1986]; Ladies Hosiery and Underwear Ltd v Middlesex Assessment Committee [1932] 2 KB 679
Hearing
27 June 2025

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