422 businesses awarded rate relief by HBC in 2014/15

A Freedom of Information request has been submitted by the Conservatives asking why Hyndburn Council has received only 2 applications for the 50 per cent discount available to businesses moving into empty retail premises under the government’s Business Rates Reoccupation Relief Scheme announced at the end of 2013. A 50% discount on business rates is available for 18 months following occupation of empty premises by a new business.

Presently, there are currently 139 vacant retail premises across the Borough of Hyndburn.

A spokesperson for HBC said: “Eligibility for the Business Rates Reoccupation Scheme restricts assistance to only new businesses and requires premises to have been vacant for a minimum of one full year before qualifying for a reduction. All the scheme details are on the Council’s website, which is currently under review to promote business rates and reliefs available so potential business people are clear of the business rates payable, as well as reliefs they are eligible to claim prior to signing a business lease.  Anyone enquiring via the Contact Centre is advised of the scheme and the Council’s Revenues Team are always happy to provide advice and guidance."

They added, "The Council recognises the importance of a vibrant retail sector and therefore has promoted the Government’s Rates Relief Scheme which supports qualifying, existing retail businesses.  In 2014/15 the Council took a proactive approach and automatically awarded retail relief to 422 business who met the eligibility criteria and this process has been applied to the 2015/16 financial year.”