A Perth couple who built up a restaurant empire in the Fair City have threatened to leave following a series of bust-ups with the council.
Herve and Paula Tabourel, who have worked in Perth for almost 20 years, slammed the local authority for “failing to listen” to local retailers.
Having complained over arrangements for this year’s Christmas festival, the pair who own the Pig’Halle and neighbouring Duo restaurants are now locked in a dispute over business rates.
“We took over a new site in October so we got three months’ free rent from the landlady, which is perfect,” Mrs Tabourel said.
“Then I received a bill for £3,000 from October to now, which I have to pay by the 31st of this month.”
She continued: “I phoned the council and asked them if they could explain to me why I’m paying the full amount when the premises are empty and I am not using any local services.
“We all know that the council has the power to stop this but they are not.”
Mrs Tabourel insists the solution is simple.
“I am a great believer that the council should employ someone with business sense and who actually went around the businesses asking what we need, and how he/she could help,” she added.
“At the moment the only thing we have is empty shops and restaurant and shop owners are demoralised they are waiting for their leases to end so they can leave Perth. Next year there will be a lot of empty shops in Perth.”
Paula’s husband, Herve, said: “We have faced pressure due to this council and now we are thinking of leaving. It is time to give our money to another council which helps businesses to grow.
“Nobody is working together on this council there is no joined-up thinking.”
The council has come under fire for paying out thousands of pounds to attract big names to switch on the Christmas lights and also faced criticism for running the event on a Saturday instead of a Sunday.
“We all make mistakes no one is perfect but you should learn from them and Perth and Kinross Council didn’t learn from last year’s mistake with the Christmas Festival,” Mr Tabourel continued.
A council spokesman said: “Perth and Kinross Council recognises the impact of rates on businesses and recognises needs according to individual property and business circumstances. On this occasion the rates that are being applied are correct … The council would be happy to discuss this further with the owners.
“The council continues to work with businesses to help local economic growth. The city development team meet regularly with new, existing and potential business owners and engage with them through social media, emails, newsletters and direct contact.
“The council has listened to the opinion of businesses in respect of the Winter Festival. Current planned activity, events and promotions reflect what the majority have told us and they are excited and positive about the benefits of the Christmas Light Switch On this year.”