Time running out to apply for business rate financial support

TIME is running out for Charnwood companies to apply for financial support if they have experienced hardship caused by changes to business rates.

Charnwood Borough Council has £80,000 to help local businesses but applications need to be in by March 9, 2018.

Last year the council secured Government funding to help local businesses following a revaluation of business rates. The changes saw business rates increase for some companies.

So far the council has awarded a total of £400,000 in rate relief to around 600 firms which have experienced hardship caused by the business rates changes.

Coun Tom Barkley, lead member for finance and property services, said: “I am delighted we have been able to help so many companies and I would urge others to get in touch with us if they have suffered hardship caused by an increase in their business rates.

“The Government requires the funding to be spent by the end of March this year so please contact us if you think we can help.”

Business rates are charged on most non-domestic premises, including most commercial properties such as shops, offices, pubs, warehouses and factories.

If your business rate bill increased last year and is contributing towards financial hardship, you may qualify for the council’s business rates relief scheme.

Please contact the council at business. rates@ charnwood. gov.uk by March 9.

• For more information about business rates, please visit www.charnwood.gov.uk/business_rates