CAT (UK) joins coalition.

CAT (UK), the Renault importer hit with a pounds 500,000 bill in backdated business rates, is to join a coalition of other port-based firms fighting for a review of the system.

The news comes as the valuation office issued new rateable values this week, which showed land at Teesport worth 46% more than it was five years ago. "Rates going forward are a problem," said Greg Brown of CAT (UK). The firm, which feared it could lose its contract with Renault, had "almost given up hope" of winning its row with the Government, but the fight had now moved up the political agenda, with seniors Tories interested in championing the case. Meanwhile solicitors working on behalf of a port users campaign group were confident of getting the money back.