J&E Shepherd Chartered Surveyors has concluded a successful rating appeal
resulting in a monetary saving of £244,000 for a Glasgow College.
Under the appeal, the annual rateable value of Langside College was
reduced from £438,500 to £332,500, effective from 1st April 2005,
representing a saving of more than 24%.

The charitable status of colleges means that they are required to pay only
20% of their annual rates bill. The rating appeal means that, in gross
terms, Langside College has saved over £244,000 over the five year
duration of the current revaluation. The next revaluation will come into
effect on 1st April 2010.

Alan McKenna, FRICS, Dip Rating, Head of Rating at J&E Shepherd, said,
"Langside College provides a fine example of the significant savings that
can be made by submitting a rating appeal. We are currently in the midst
of discussing a number of similar appeals on behalf of several colleges
throughout Scotland and are optimistic that similar savings can be
achieved."

The Finance Manager at Langside College, said, "We are delighted with the
result of this appeal which far exceeded our expectations. I would
recommend all colleges to investigate their rating as substantial savings
may be possible."

Since opening in 1947, Langside College has offered learning and training
opportunities to students from Glasgow and beyond and has established
itself as a major player in the Scottish educational scene. At present the
College is enhancing its estates. Phase 1 of this new build strategy sees
a new campus planned to open in August 2009.

Alan McKenna