This report seeks approval for the changes to the discretionary rates relief policy to reflect the introduction of a discretionary rate relief scheme giving business rate relief for properties that are used for the purpose of a heat network.

In accepting the recommendation, Cabinet will approve the adoption of the heat network rate relief for 2022/23 only and to the change to the Non domestic discretionary relief policy to include the new heat network rate relief for 2022/23 as per government guidance.

The subject of the decision:

This report sought approval for the changes to the Discretionary Rates Relief policy to reflect the introduction of a Discretionary Rate Relief scheme giving business rate relief for properties that were used for the purpose of a heat network.

Alternative options considered:

None.

The reason for the decision:

To take account of the expectation from Central Government that billing authorities use their discretionary relief powers under Section 47 of the Local Government Finance Act 1988 to award this relief where a business meets the eligibility criteria as determined by Central Government.

The decision:

That Cabinet approves the adoption of the heat network rate relief for 2022/23 only and to the change to the Non Domestic Discretionary Relief policy to include the new heat network rate relief for 2022/23 as per Government guidance.