Decision details

To add four categories of business rates relief to the scheme for discretionary rates relief, relating to young businesses in our target sectors, civic enterprise, commercial listed buildings currently not in use and significant inward investment.

Further to Minute No. 235, 24^th April 2013,the Deputy Chief Executive and the Director of City Development submitted a joint report which sought approval to extend the guidelines for the award of discretionary rate relief to “for profit” organisations who meet the stated criteria, as now permitted under Section 69 of the Localism Act 2011.

Members welcomed the proposals detailed within the submitted report and the assistance that the extension to the scheme would provide to businesses across the city.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the proposals to extend the guidelines for the award of discretionary relief for Business Rates from 1st April 2014 be approved.

(b)  That it be noted that the Deputy Chief Executive will be responsible for amending the guidelines for awarding discretionary relief.

(c)  That it be noted that the Chief Economic Development Officer will be responsible for implementing the scheme from 1 April 2014, as outlined within Section 3.5 of the submitted report.

New proposals sent with formal consultation letter to business networks and bodies, with parallel process undertaken through Talking Point for the general public.

Residents of Leeds (through Talking Point)

Leeds Chamber of Commerce

Leeds and Partners

Federation of Small Businesses

Leeds Retail Association

UK Trade and Investment

Leeds Civic Trust

Voluntary Action Leeds

Leeds Community Foundation