Businesses in the retail, hospitality and leisure sectors will pay no business rates in 2020/21 as politicians attempt to reduce the economic impact of coronavirus.

Maidstone Borough Council has today announced measures being put in place to help business through the unfolding crisis, which has seen many firms left fearing for their future as staffing is hit and consumers stay at home.

There will be no need for eligible Maidstone businesses to apply for the relief on rates. The council will send revised bills during the course of the next week to those who qualify, confirming that there will be no business rates payable from April 1.

In addition to this move, businesses in these sectors benefitting from this relief, and with a rateable value up to £51,000, will also receive a cash grant of up to £25,000.

All businesses in receipt of small business rates relief – regardless of sector – will be eligible for a cash payment of £10,000, although payment will not be made until central government confirms all the details of the scheme.

Cllr Martin Cox, leader of the borough council, said in a message to businesses: "As the leader of the council I am proud to call Maidstone the business capital of Kent and as a local business owner myself I appreciate the impact Covid-19 is having on the business community.

"I want to reassure you that Maidstone Borough Council will be doing everything it can to support you in the weeks and months to come.

"The announcements in the budget and those made yesterday by central government with measures to help businesses affected by the Coronavirus outbreak will be a welcome relief to many businesses in the Maidstone borough. We are committed to ensuring those measures relating to business rates are introduced as soon as possible.

"Whilst the council is awaiting detail from government on how the scheme is to operate, I want us to be ready to make the payments as quickly as possible because I know it’s an important lifeline for many businesses.

"So included with the revised bill will be advice on what you need to do to set up payment details for the grant, when made available from government. Please can I ask that you do this as soon as possible."

More information will be available shortly on Maidstone Borough Council’s website. Those with questions regarding the support which may be available should contact the business support team at covid19business@maidstone.gov.uk.

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