Retailers can save on business rates

Powys County Council has announced that time is running out for retailers to claim up to £1,000 off their business rates bill.

Retailers and food and drink premises are being urged by the county council to apply for a discount that could cut their Business Rates by up to £1,000 for this financial year. Applications though must be received by March 31.

The Wales Retail Relief Scheme will provide up to a £1,000 discount on the business rates bill to all qualifying retail premises with a rateable value of less than £50,000.

The Welsh Government has made available grant funding of £586,000 for the Council to operate this scheme for this financial year (2014-15). To date Powys businesses have been granted discounts totalling £452,000.

Cllr Avril York, Cabinet Member responsible for Regeneration, said: “The retail sector is changing and many high streets are having to adapt to changing consumer preferences in how people shop.  This scheme aims to support Powys businesses that are responding to the challenges that result from this changing retail environment.

“Not only will it provide assistances to many businesses during this current economic situation, it will also inject money into the Powys economy, support jobs and contribute to the development of sustainable and vibrant town centres.

“I would urge our retail premises that qualify to apply for this relief before the Tuesday 31 March deadline.  We will continue to work closely with the Welsh Government to deliver real economic benefits for the Powys economy.”

To download an application form visit www.powys.gov.uk or for more information contact Powys County Council by telephone 01597 827463 or email revenues@powys.gov.uk