Business rates specialists at Malcolm Scott Consultants have issued a reminder to retail, leisure and hospitality operators to update themselves on the various rates relief policies in place across the UK as they attempt to recoup some of the losses resulting from the coronavirus pandemic.
Businesses across the three sectors in England have been assured that rates relief measures will continue to apply until March next year.
The Government confirmed earlier this year that in England, its Expanded Retail, Leisure and Hospitality Discount would continue to apply in 2021/22, with cash caps put in place according to the impact the country’s third national lockdown had on their businesses.
Andrew Burton of MSC said: “The Government made a commitment on 3 March this year that it would offer 100% rates relief from the period of 1 April to 30 June 2021, with a 66% relief taking its place for the remaining period of 1 July 2021 to 31 March 2022 for those businesses affected in England.
“It was also confirmed that while there would be no cash cap on the relief received for that first three-month period, from 1 July this year, relief will be capped at £105,000 per business for those that remained open during the lockdown, or capped at £2m for businesses that were required to close when the third national lockdown came into force on 5 January 2021.
“Ultimately, it means that a total of 750,000 retail, hospitality and leisure properties in England will pay no business rates until 30 June. The discount is automatically applied if the property qualified for the discount prior, but it’s important that any business within those sectors affected by the Government’s coronavirus response checks if they are eligible and have registered as such,” he said.
Andrew added: “While garden centres were allowed to open during the last national lockdown, many chose not to, and all restaurants and coffee shops had to remain closed. These retailers have finally been allowed to open their doors this month, but many leisure and hospitality businesses still confined to operating only if they have outdoor space, it is vital that all of these businesses check their entitlement. It’s also important to note that Ratepayers occupying more than one property will be entitled to Retail Relief for each of their eligible properties.
“The next 12 months are paramount in helping businesses welcome back their customers and re-cement their foundations, and every penny that can be secured in financial aid to help that recovery should be claimed.”
