Release date: 5 September 2017

Cotswold District Councils leader is reminding local firms that they might qualify for business rate relief under proposals which were first announced in the March 2017 budget.

The Council has already identified businesses which are likely to meet the criteria, and wrote to them in July, encouraging them to apply for relief in the knowledge that the scheme would soon be finalised.

The relief scheme includes support to small businesses facing large increases of over £600 a year.  Up to £1,000 discount is also available for qualifying public houses with a rateable value of under £100,000.  Additionally, there is a discretionary fund to assist businesses with a rateable value of less than £200,000 and facing a rates increase of over £600 this year.

The Leader of CDC, Cllr Mark Annett, is keen to promote this relief scheme:

So far we have only seen a disappointing 40% response to our call for business rate relief applications.  There are substantial savings available and I am eager to ensure that companies across the District are fully aware of the potential financial benefits on offer.

I would urge all businesses to enquire about their eligibility for rates relief – please contact the Council on 01285 623000 if you want to find out whether you qualify.