The Council has a discretionary power under Section 49 of the Local Government Finance Act 1988, in exceptional circumstances to reduce all or part of a business rates bill.
The legislation stipulates that a local authority in considering hardship must be satisfied:
- The ratepayer will suffer hardship if relief is not granted
- There is a direct benefit to the ratepayer, or the community, and there are no adverse impact to other ratepayers or the community as a result of awarding relief
In coming to an individual decision we will consider numerous other factors.
If you wish to apply for hardship relief, please do so in writing to Stroud District Council, Business Rates Department. Please include detailed copy of accounts. As it is intended as a one off award we will need details of what steps are being taken to prevent hardship in the future.
