Issue - meetings

To consider the Business Rates Relief Policy.

Councillor Fairhurst declared a pecuniary interest as he paid business rates in the District.He took no part in the debate, nor the vote.

Councillor Hargreaves summarised the report to Council. The business rates relief would be awarded automatically to eligible businesses in the area and would take effect from 1 April 2020.

The following points were highlighted:

·         The business rates retail discount scheme for occupied retail properties with a rateable value of less than £51,000 would increase from 33% to 50%.

·         A discount of £1,000 would be available to eligible pubs with a rateable value of less than £100,000 in 2020/21.

·         The extension of the £1,500 business rates discount for office space occupied by local newspapers would apply for an additional 5 years, 1 April 2020 to 31 March 2025.

Councillor Hargreaves said the additional money would be welcomed by businesses and proposed adoption of the policy.

Councillor Lees seconded the proposal.

RESOLVED to adopt the Business Rates Discretionary Rate Relief/Discount Policy as set out in Appendix A

The Chair adjourned the meeting until the 10 March where the remaining business would be considered.

The meeting was adjourned at 11.00pm.