Business Rates

What are Business Rates?

National Non-Domestic Rates, more commonly known as Business Rates, are a form of tax charged on properties used for non-domestic purposes.

Other than certain discretionary relief, we have no part in the setting of the level of charge for Business Rates.

The non-domestic rates collected nationally are paid into a central pool and re-distributed by the government to all local authorities.

Our share of the re-distributed rates, together with what we collect from council tax, government funding and other sources, is used to pay for the services we provide.

As a nationally determined 'property tax', there are no legislative provisions upon councils to provide services specifically for Business Rate payers.

However in addition to providing a range of services to the business community (for which there may be a separate charge), the council actively seeks consultation in determining its expenditure plans.

Formal consultation normally takes place twice a year in November and January.