National Non-Domestic Rates (Business Rates) Discretionary Rate Relief Policy

(Section 47 of the Local Government Finance Act 1998 as amended by Section 69 of the Localism Act 2011)

Overview

Under the Localism Act 2011, up to 100% discretionary relief may be awarded to certain new build empty commercial properties. The purpose of new build empty property relief is to help to stimulate construction.

Eligibility

Relief will be granted in the following circumstances:

• a newly built commercial property completed between 1 October 2013 and 30 September 2016

Applications

Applicants must provide:

• a completed application form to demonstrate how the application satisfies the eligibility criteria
• any information required that is specific to the type of relief being applied for
• evidence of financial need
• any other information that the Council may consider necessary in order to assess the application

Duration

Relief may be awarded for up to 18 months from the completion date. This is a temporary relief and eligibility ends on 31 March 2018.