Move to allay fears of rates shock for Shropshire community groups
The leader of Shropshire Council today sought to allay the fears of charity workers and community groups in wake of the news they could soon have to pay business rates on the buildings they use.
Last week it was revealed the authority planned to end the discretionary business rate relief that currently applies to charitable organisations, scout and guide groups, village halls and senior citizens clubs.
But Councillor Peter Nutting has pledged that he intends to protect good causes from any big rises in bills.
Letters have been sent to those affected by the council's revenues and benefits service manager, notifying them of the rate change, which could come in to force on April 1 2019.
The letter says: "Should there be any reduction or removal of discretionary relief awarded, then Section 47 of the Local Government Finance Act 1988 dictates that those ratepayers affected should be given a financial year's notice. Subject to amendments made to our policy, the discretionary rate relief currently awarded will be reduced or totally removed with effect from April 1 2019.”
