AFTER an unexpected increase in rent, a Tiverton physio is looking for a new business home.

Roz Thomas, 36, was just about to celebrate her second year at Exe Valley leisure centre on Bolham Road, until she was given 14 days notice to leave. Now Mrs Thomas is looking for a new place to conduct her business.

According to Mrs Thomas, the space she was occupying was needed by the council ran leisure centre for office space. It was agreed by the local authority and Mrs Thomas that she could remain at the centre whilst an alternative plan was created.

On Tuesday, May 24, Mrs Thomas received her new arrangement offering for £180 a week, this sum is apparently several times what she had already been paying. The size of the business meant that this amount was unachievable.

Mrs Thomas said: "This news completely blew me out of the water.

"My youngest daughter starts school in September and I was looking forward to putting more hours into growing the business at the leisure centre for the long term.

"I have tried to negotiate with the Council to remain in the leisure centre, and although this has been a shock, I’m trying to use it in a positive manner to find somewhere where my tenancy is secure, and I am supported.

"I have about four weeks to relocate and I’m appealing for suitable premises.

"I would like to reassure all my customers and the local community that I will continue to work in the local area with the same contact details if you need to see me."

Mid Devon Council representatives met with Mrs Thomas a number of times, agreeing that the rise in rent was substantial.

Stephen Walford, Chief Executive for Mid Devon Council, said: "The tenancy agreement with this individual expired in February and we have recently decided not to renew it.

"While the specific terms are confidential, Mid Devon was only securing a rental income for the space linked to specific parts of business activity, and hence this private business was being subsidised to a significant extent by the taxpayer – a situation that we sought to rectify when the lease came up for renewal.

"In this instance, we agreed to the contractual notice period being doubled in order to provide some suitable transitioning where possible, but I believe the individual is now considering how best to operate and expand their business, and Mid Devon’s economic development officer has been providing support and advice on how they may best achieve this."

Mrs Thomas now requires a long-term tenancy agreement for one room accessible to those with disabilities and with parking.

Anyone who might be able to help Mrs Thomas can email rozthomasphysio@gmail.com.