Independent businesses in Dartmouth have been having a tough time due to the soaring cost of business rates.

The rates are based on rateable value times a multiplier set by central government.

A rateable value up to £51,000 attracts one rate and above this come four higher bands.

Some types of business attract a rate reduction.

Ed Capper owns a number of local businesses including the Dartmouth Wine Company in Duke Street says things have become costly: “Two years ago I was paying under £700 for all my rates.

“I have a store at the top which is fully rateable.

“I also have this premises, my shop, but I also bought the little shop next door which was zero rateable and because I knocked through, they're charging me full rates on it.”

Retail hospitality and leisure businesses receive a rate reduction and small businesses under £51,000 get a small business multiplier rate.

Mr Capper believes more could be done to help businesses such as his: “Everything goes up, and hopefully my turnover goes up, but I have to work at that,” he said.

“If they want the high street to resemble something, individual that doesn't look like every other high street in the country they need to give small businesses and independent businesses rates relief which would be very helpful.”

This comes following the closure of two major traders in the town, Cotton Traders and Mountain Warehouse, both on Duke Street.

The closures prompted a number of comments from readers online when news of the businesses shutting was published.

Paul Kortz commented: “People prefer to shop online. Progress, I’m afraid. Bricks and mortar shops are doomed.”

Martyn Norsworthy wrote: “You can’t earn a wage and pay the rent. It’s so expensive to run a business.”

Vivienne Yates added: “Sadly, these closures are taking place all over the country. High rents, often parking problems, internet shopping and even charity shops, which are popular and very plentiful now.”