Decision details

Introduction of Discretionary Retail Relief Policy to award £1000 relief to all shops in 2014/15 & 2015/16,  with a rateable value of less than £50,000  and where the premises are used wholly or  mainly as shops, restaurants & cafes/drinking establishments

RESOLVED:  That

(1)               Business Rates Retail Relief be awarded for the financial years 2014/15 and 2015/16 only, under the powers of section 47 of the Local Government Finance Act 1988, as amended by the Localism Act 2011;

(2)               the Business Rates Retail Relief Policy be adopted for the financial years 2014/15 and 2015/16 only. 

Reason for Decision:  To allow the Council to support its local retail businesses to adapt to the changing environment through the award of this relief over the years 2014/15 and 2015/16.  Actual costs to the Local Authority of any relief that falls within the criteria stated within the Business Rates Retail Relief Guidance (as issued by central government in January 2014) would be reimbursed through the business rates retention scheme.

Alternative Options Considered and Rejected:  As set out in the report.

Conflict of Interest relating to the matter declared by Cabinet Member / Dispensation Granted:  None.