Council given more powers to provide relief for businesses

A new policy which outlines discretionary rate relief (DRR) for businesses is to be created as Plymouth City Council is given more powers by Government.

Registered charities can currently claim 80 per cent mandatory relief from the Government, in addition the Council can offer discretionary top up relief. However, due to changes in government funding arrangements the Council will be required to pay more towards this relief.

Other non-profit organisations have also been able to claim DRR in the past as no policy has been in place to co-ordinate requests.

The Council are planning to use the new powers to review the entire approach to rates relief in the future, ensuring that they support those organisations that contribute most to the local economy and residents in Plymouth.

Cabinet Member for Finance, Councillor Mark Lowry said: “Having more local powers is a positive step forward. Reviewing what we pay out and setting some criteria guidelines will help us ensure we are helping businesses that contribute to the city.

“The powers also mean that we hold the decision as to whether we can also offer support to profit making organisations that are experiencing temporary hardship and this is something we will looking into further.

“It is difficult times at the moment and we will do everything we can to help protect and keep our economy alive.”

The proposals will be discussed at the Cabinet meeting on 6 August and if agreed will be implemented this financial year.