I am making the first tentative enquiries concerning the setting up of a new business in Sheffield. At the moment I am considering running a franchise of an up market hot food takeaway. My initial thoughts were that it would position quite well in the Ecclesall Rd area.

However,

Last night someone told me that Sheffield is a nightmare of a place to start a business...huge business rates, little support....unless your in bed with (politically speaking) the local Labour Party.

Now, I'm not anti labour (not particularly pro either) but I'm concerned about this and may well sack Sheffield altoether for the business and go into the peak district.

Are there any small business people with any advice or warnings?!

Cloud

The people who set up Mash House on Division Street cited the councils unhelpfulness as one reason for closing.

Why would you expect the council to help you set up a restaurant? What are they supposed to do, other than give you planning permission?

It never occurred to me to consult the council when I was setting up ... I did try other bodies, yes, hoping for some sort of grant but as I wasn't young or a minority there was nothing forthcoming, other than well meaning advice :D

Best of luck with whatever you decide, but I personally feel that eateries are taking over the world! Ever unit that comes vacant in my area, starts up as a food place! We'll be the fattest neighbourhood in Sheffield soon.

It's not so much help financially, but I had heard that the council would be fairly obstructive with planning etc.

As regards too many eateries, well the market will decide. Personally I think there is a place for high quality products with great service and reasonable price!

You will find it may be more rewarding setting up outside of the city. I.e between Chesterfield and Sheffield or something similar. That way you get the best of both worlds. I know whenever I go for a meal I prefer to get out of the city.

Are you planning on asking for planning permission to build as part of setting up your business?

The only other thing you need to do is pay them your business rates.

Me and some mates are trying to set up a record/clothing store its and proving hard man,planning is a pain and getting money for those rates is stupid!

Are you planning on asking for planning permission to build as part of setting up your business?

The only other thing you need to do is pay them your business rates.

...No, I intend to use an exisiting shop but convert it /fit it out for the new purpose.

Try and find a shop with existing A5 (hot food takeaway) planning consent then you dont need to bother with the council.
Councils dont set the business rates. They evaluate the rateable value (which you may be able to contest) which is based on its rental value. Therefore supply and demand dictates the rateable value.