Guidance Notes

Relief from Rates on the Grounds of Hardship.

Each application will be formally considered by the Councils Revenues and Benefits Manager and will be dealt with in strictest confidence.

1. Any application for relief should be made on the appropriate application form.
2. Any decision must be made in the interests of the Council Taxpayers of Bridgnorth District Council area.
3. The Revenues & Benefits Manager must be satisfied that without this relief the applicant would suffer hardship.
4. The Head of Revenues will consider the amenity and employment value of the business.
5. The Revenues and Benefits Manager will consider the size, location and type of business.
6. Relief of up to 100% can be allowed but would normally be limited to 80%.
7. Any relief granted would be considered to be effective from the start of the financial year in which the application is received.
8. Any relief is for one year only. Applications have to be renewed each year.
9. Any relief granted will be withdrawn immediately if any business is sold or ceases to trade.
10. Applications will not be considered in respect of businesses, which have ceased trading, as any relief granted in those circumstances would not bring benefits for the local community.
11. The ratepayer can appeal to the Councils Appeals and Review Board if they are dissatisfied by the decision of the Revenues and Benefits Manager.