Retail premises in the Mansfield district can apply for a discount of up to £1,000 a year on their business rates for the next two years.

Mansfield District Council has introduced the government’s Discretionary Retail Rate Relief policy following a decision taken by Coun Roger Sutcliffe, the portfolio holder for resources.

The government is giving funding to local authorities to provide a discount worth up to £1,000 a year for retail premises with a rateable value of up to £50,000.

Coun Sutcliffe said: “We are pleased to introduce this policy, which will benefit hundreds of retail businesses in our area and is in line with the Council’s priority to revitalise our District. It is great news for the struggling small business retail industry.”

The council will make the award to occupied retail premises provided:

The property has a rateable value of £50,000 or less.
The property is occupied and is wholly or mainly used as a shop, restaurant, café or drinking establishment, or provides services to the public.

Financial, medical and professional services are not eligible.

Application forms have been sent to more than 400 businesses that could qualify for the discount.

Applications can be made directly to the council. For further information on qualifying businesses or an application form, contact the Revenues and Benefits team on 01623 463162 or email [email protected]