A report giving details of a new discretionary rate relief scheme for 2022/23

The report of the Director of Finance and Transformation provided details of a new discretionary rate relief scheme for 2022/23 to replace Transitional Relief and Supporting Small Business Relief which had both ceased on 31 March 2022.

This new relief was introduced to help businesses who would have still qualified for the previous schemes if they had continued into 2022/23, as the revaluation had been delayed from 1 April 2022 to 1 April 2023.

Members had regard to the main issues, the financial and value for money considerations and the legal implications detailed in the report and sought clarity around potential levels of fraud and funding to support the Borough Council in administering this new grant.  In response, Members were advised that the risk of fraud remained very low and the Borough Council had robust measures in place.  With regard to additional funding, it was reported that new burdens funding had been received for previous schemes.  However, there was uncertainty around any future new burdens funding to support these new schemes.

RECOMMENDED:  That

(1)             a scheme for the Extension of Transitional Relief and Supporting Small Business Relief be adopted for small and medium properties for 2022/23; and

(2)             delegated authority be given to the Revenues Manager to award, revise or revoke relief in accordance with the adopted scheme, subject to any disputed entitlement to relief being referred to the Director of Finance and Transformation.