MORE than 200 businesses in Copeland have received a discount on their rates bill.
Copeland Council has applied the Government’s Retail Relief Scheme automatically, and has identified 212 business that are receiving a third off their bill this year.
Businesses that are receiving this discount, effective from April 1, include shops, restaurants and pubs. Businesses that are occupied and have a rateable value of less than £51,000 qualify for the discount.
Pat Graham, Chief Executive of Copeland Council, said: “The Government recognises that changing consumer behaviour presents a significant challenge for a number of retailers. Copeland Council welcomes this action it is taking to help the keep the high street vibrant and a great place to visit.”
Copeland Council has included the Retail Relief Scheme in its newly-adopted Discretionary Rate Relief Policy, which sets out the criteria on which it can apply discounts in the borough. Those eligible for discounts include charities, non-profit-making organisations and amateur sports clubs.
