I've raised £9000 to help prevent forced shop closure after backdated business rates bill.
Organised by Emma Cussen
Story
My name is Emma (not to be confused with the owner), I have worked for Queen Bee Home in Mercery Lane Canterbury as a Barista now for almost 2 years. This anniversary also marks the shops beautiful addition at the back of the premises into a small cafe, within a year of it opening it has become a lovely communal space for all our customers.
Emma and Simon North (owners), were handed a sudden bill earlier this March, of almost 10K. This was in relation to the fact the owners applied for planning permission 18 months ago (approved), for change of use. This has now resulted in the council taking 18 month to respond with a backdated forced bill totalling £9,750, irrationally to be paid within a matter of weeks (30 days).
The cafe really saved Queen Bee Home when retail sales dipped in 2017 and , with some lovely loyal customers, has kept us going. But if they insist on the arrears being paid, we stand to lose it all. - Emma North
As this payment is unrealistic for the owners to pay out of their own pocket, I am helping them by setting up this crowdfunding site. I have had many jobs during my time at University, simply to afford attending, and I can honestly say out of them, working for Emma and Simon at Queen Bee Home has been the most rewarding of them all. I have made some life long friends by working here (Charlene, Charlotte and Penny), and I would be heartbroken to leave this all behind.
All donations made will go directly to Queen Bee Home, from there the owners will be able to use the money to contribute towards the business rate back payment, even if we don't reach the target, it's a start and a little sprinkle of hope to keep Queen Bee Home open.
