Decision Maker: Cabinet

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: Yes

Date of Decision: February 10, 2026

Purpose: The Policy is updated annually to incorporate changes announced by Government, administered by the Council.

Content:  The Cabinet considered a report of the Director of Corporate Services and Chief Finance Officer, which sought to inform of the updated Discretionary Business Rate Relief Policy for 2026-27 in line with the changes announced by the Government during 2025.   The Cabinet Member Finance and Growth delivered a brief summary of the report’s key points.   The Head of Revenues and Benefits was in attendance to present the information and to address the questions and comments of the Cabinet Members and of the Leader of the Conservative Group.   The Officer briefly outlined the policy included in Appendix 1 to the report.   Resolved: 1.     That the removal of Retail, Hospitality and Leisure Relief Scheme be noted; 2.     That the updated Transitional Relief scheme be noted; 3.     That the updated Small Business Support scheme be noted; 4.     That the new Electric Vehicle ChargePoint scheme  be noted; 5.     That the new Pub and Live Music Venues Relief be noted; 6.     That the Chief Finance Officer be given delegated authority, in consultation with the Portfolio Holder Finance and Growth to finalise the 2026-27 Discretionary Business Rate Relief Policy in the event that the Government announce any further changes for 2026-27.   Reason for decision: The changes announced by Government must be implemented and administered by the Council. The policy had been updated to reflect this.   Alternatives considered and rejected: None – Government had instructed the Council to implement and administer the changes to the Business Rates scheme.