Issue - meetings

It was moved by Councillor Cox, seconded by Councillor Perry, that the recommendation of the Policy and Resources Committee relating to Business Rates Retail Relief be approved.

RESOLVED:  That the Retail Relief Policy, attached as Appendix 1 to the report of the Policy and Resources Committee, for the award of Business Rates Retail Relief in line with the guidance provided by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government be agreed.

Mr Stephen McGinnes, Director of Mid Kent Services, gave a presentation to the Committee outlining a policy awarding Business Rates Relief to retailers within the Borough. Mr McGinnes explained that this relief was fully funded by the government, and had been announced in the 2017 budget. Instead of making changes to business rates legislation to assist small retailers, the government had announced a fully funded relief for local authorities to implement. The policy drawn up was compliant with the government guidance, and would be applied automatically to all eligible businesses in the Borough.

The Committee stated its support for the policy in order to assist small retailers across the Borough.

RESOLVED: That Council is recommended to agree the Retail Relief Policy (Appendix 1) for the award of Business Rates Relief in line with the guidance provided by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government.

Voting: Unanimous