Decision Maker:

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: No

Date of Decision: December 4, 2025

Purpose:

Content: The Council voted (17 voting in favour, 5 voting against, 2 abstaining from voting) on an amendment submitted by Councillor James Rixon, which was carried, as follows:   “This council supports the principle of abolishing business rates for pubs, high street shops and the hospitality sector. and replacing them with a Commercial Landowner Levy (CLL) based only on the value of the land where the business is located. Council believes such a system would benefit our high streets; boost business investment, productivity and wages; enable more businesses to tackle the climate emergency; and help bridge the gap between shops and online retail giants. The current business rates system is based on a property's 'rateable value', which includes 'plant and machinery', which Council believes effectively taxes the investments a company makes in its premises that could make it more productive or energy efficient. Council welcomes that such a levy would be paid by property owners, not tenants, shifting the administrative burden and the associated cost away from businesses. Council believes that should the system be reformed, the government must ensure changes won’t affect local government finances.   Council further notes and supports Liberal Democrat proposals to support high streets and hospitality, including cutting VAT by 5% for hospitality, accommodation and attractions until April 2027.”     It was agreed (unanimous) that the motion as amended by Councillor James Rixon be withdrawn.