The Ilkley martial arts club, Evolution Gracie Jiu-Jitsu, is facing a financial crisis after Bradford Council increased its business rates from £0 to £755 per month!
The club moved into new premises on East Parade in December 2025, paying an annual rent of £13,000, the property's rateable value was £13,500, meaning it qualified for Small Business Rates Relief and were not required to pay business rates.
However this changed in April, after an increase in the property's rateable value to £16,500, triggering the £755 per month rates bill.
The club has appealed, but in the meantime is having to look at other ways to create an income, including renting out its premises for meetings and events.
Francis Robinson from Evolution Gracie Jiu-Jitsu in Ilkley says for years they have been proud to be more than just a martial arts club:
"We are a local pillar of the community, helping children, adults, and families improve their physical and mental wellbeing through Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
"One of the programmes we're most proud of is our Bullyproof Programme, which gives local children the confidence, resilience, and skills to deal with bullying in a safe and positive way. We also provide a welcoming environment where people of all ages can improve their fitness, mental health, and sense of belonging.
"Moving into this new venue has enabled us to expand our services, allowing us to deliver more programmes and create additional opportunities for students from disadvantaged backgrounds.
"However, I recently received a business rates bill after the council increased the property's rateable value to £16,500. Our annual rent remains £13,000, and nothing has changed regarding what we actually pay. I have submitted a formal appeal against the new valuation and have also contacted Robbie Moore MP regarding the matter last Friday.
"Unfortunately, while the appeal is ongoing, I have been unable to get a response from the council regarding any interim support. At present, we urgently require some form of financial hardship relief, as we simply do not have the funds to cover business rates of £755 per month while this issue is being resolved.
"We are committed to continuing our work within the community, but these unexpected costs place our organisation under significant financial pressure."
The club would be extremely grateful for any assistance or temporary relief that can be provided while the appeal is being considered. Anyone who can help or would like to enquire about the use of their premises is asked to contact Francis via email evolutionjj@outlook.com. You can find the club on Facebook here.
Bradford Council has been contacted for their comments.
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