Rochdale business rates are amongst the most expensive in the country, so is it any wonder shops are closing !!! Lets see this council try something revolutionary & CUT business rates by 30 or 40%....This would encourage traders to open outlets here rather than elsewhere & since more shops would be in use, then the council wouldn't be loosing revenue!!!!! Also car parks would be full creating extra revenue !!!!NOT ROCKET SCIENCE IS IT.... Show some courage for once & try something different......Lets face it, you can't do any worse..