Issue - meetings

To consider Report No. FIN2010 (copy attached), which sets out proposed amendments to the existing Retail Discount Policy to reduce business rates liabilities to retail outlets and seeks approval of a new Pub Discount Scheme.

The Cabinet considered Report No. FIN2010, which set out proposed amendments to the Council’s existing Retail Discount Policy and proposed the  reintroduction of a Pub Discount Scheme.

Members were informed that the Retail Discount Policy was being changed due to the Government increasing the amount of the discount from 33% to 50% and broadening the qualifying criteria to include music venues and cinemas. Members were informed that the Pub Discount Scheme would provide a discount of £1,000 to eligible pubs with a rateable value of less than £100,000 in 2020/21.

The Cabinet RESOLVED that

(i)           the amendments to the Council’s Retail Discount Policy, as set out in Report No. FIN2010, be approved;

(ii)          the establishment of a local Pub Discount Scheme, as set out in the Report, be approved; and

(iii)         the Executive Head of Finance, in consultation with the Corporate Services Portfolio Holder, be authorised to award the reliefs and resolve disputes around eligibility for the schemes.