The Localism Act 2011 allow us to grant discretionary relief to any premises where the relief would benefit the local community.
Applications must deliver:
- the best long-term interests of Woking’s community
- use of the property must contribute to one or more of the Council’s key strategies as contained in the Council’s current Corporate Plan, which may be updated from time to time
How to apply
Find out more and how to apply depending on the type of organisation or occupation:
- charities
- community amateur sports clubs (CASCs)
- not for profit organisations
- partly unoccupied properties
- ratepayers facing hardship
- other
Discretionary relief conditions and guidance
- Applications for less than 20% but more than £5,000 discretionary relief must apply annually.
- Applications for less than 20% and less than £5,000 discretionary relief will be required to apply every three years.
- Continuation of relief will be subject to reapplication or review.
- Business rate payers will need to ensure they comply with the minimal financial assistance thresholds as outlined in the Subsidy Control Act 2022.
Important payment information
- Applying for the relief does not entitle you to withhold payments on your account. You must continue to pay your business rates as billed.
- Recovery action will be taken if your payments are not up to date.