The Rating Advisory Panel of Westminster Council met on Tuesday 21 April 2026. The primary focus of the meeting was to consider applications for National Non-Domestic Rate (NNDR) discretionary and hardship relief.

NNDR Discretionary and Hardship Relief Applications

The panel was scheduled to review a series of applications for NNDR discretionary and hardship relief. These applications, detailed across pages 3 to 378 of the public reports pack, relate to businesses seeking financial assistance with their business rates. The Local Government Act 1972 allows for the exclusion of the public and press from discussions involving the disclosure of exempt information, and it was recommended that this procedure be followed for this agenda item. The specific grounds for exemption were related to the likely disclosure of exempt information, with the council considering that the public interest in maintaining this exemption outweighed the public interest in disclosure.

The report pack indicated that the panel would be considering applications from various entities, though the specific names of these entities are not detailed in the provided agenda. The purpose of NNDR discretionary and hardship relief is to provide financial support to businesses facing significant challenges, potentially preventing closure and safeguarding local employment. The council's approach to such relief is often guided by its commitment to supporting local businesses and maintaining a vibrant economy, as outlined in its previous statements and manifesto pledges.

The agenda also included standard procedural items such as noting any changes to the panel's membership and receiving declarations of interest from members and officers.