Business rate relief scheme extended in Northampton for those affected by 2017 rises

Businesses affected by heavy rate rises in 2017 are being offered an extension to the business rate relief scheme.

Northampton Borough Council intends to continue offering financial assistance to individual businesses who have seen their business rates rise significantly due to the 2017 revaluation, through the local 'discretionary rate relief scheme'.

The scheme was initially only available for one year, however, the borough council has confirmed that the same level of support will be available from April 2019.

Of the businesses that qualified last year, 72 are still eligible, the authority says.

Businesses that received the rate relief in 2018 will automatically be granted the funding next year. However, other business owners in a property occupied since April 2017 with a rateable value less than Â£200,000 may also be eligible - providing the business is not a betting shop, an adult entertainment store or a pawnbrokers.

Councillor Brandon Eldred, cabinet member for finance, said: “Following the recent review of the local discretionary rate relief scheme, which we introduced in 2017, we are pleased to be in a position to continue this vital support to businesses next year.

“We hope that this scheme continues to help smaller, independent businesses in the town thrive and we encourage anyone who thinks they might be eligible for the rate relief to get in touch.”

To find out more about business rates and the guidelines for relief visit northampton.gov.uk/businessrates or email [email protected]