Business rates relief boosted with new £1.5 billion pot

Business ratepayers adversely affected by COVID-19 are to get a £1.5 billion discount on their bills.

The headlines:

– New Business Rates relief fund of £1.5 billion for businesses affected by COVID-19 outside the retail, hospitality, and leisure sectors

– Targeted support delivered as appeals against rates bills on basis of material changes of circumstance due to the pandemic to be ruled out

– The relief fund will get cash to affected businesses in the most proportionate and equitable way