The Rt Hon Philip Hammond MP made the confirmation in last week’s Spring Budget.
Stuart James, director of the Independent Garage Association (IGA), welcomed the announcement and said: “Although a majority of independent garages have not been affected by the 2017 business rate changes, we are aware that a number of our members have faced serious business rate increases, so we are pleased to see that a rate relief cap will be put in place.
“However, we still need further information about how the government will help small businesses who have faced severe rate increases but are not eligible for business rate relief.
“More details are again needed on the £300m fund for local councils to offer discretionary relief for hard-hit cases.”
“I also question why pubs have been singled out to have a £1,000 discount on their business rates bills, many independent garages are struggling with expensive taxes and bills too.”
Related: Garage owner speaks out against business rate changes
Businesses throughout the UK have seen dramatic changes to their business rates after the first revaluation in seven years, where the government adjusts the value of business rates to reflect changes to property rental value.
Although many areas of the country have seen their rates fall, London and the South East in particular have seen large increases.
For further information about the IGA, follow the ‘more details’ link below.
Share your comments below.
Mike Smith
For the last 5 years I have paid no rates because of 100% relief from New Forest District Council. This year £1754.09. Bit more thane £50 more.
Mike Smith
For the last 5 years I have paid no rates because of 100% relief from New Forest District Council. This year £1754.09. Bit more thane £50 more.