Decision details

Mr Barnes explained that Indigo is an independent retailer in Chichester selling clothing for women, which employs four members of staff, and provides work for an accountant, bookkeeper and tailoress.  The owner cites increasing costs and a decreasing turnover (0.23% in 2017-18) as the basis on which the request is made for hardship relief.  Mr Barnes also noted that the government has introduced a retail relief scheme will operate for two years from 1 April 2019, with qualifying ratepayer received one third off their rates bill.

The Panel considered that the situation did not amount to exceptional circumstance and refused the award requested.

RESOLVED BY THE CABINET MEMBER FOR COMMUNITY SERVICES IN CONSULTATION WITH THE GRANTS AND CONCESSIONS PANEL:

That the organisation commonly known as Indigo request for discretionary rate relief as set out in the report be refused for period 1 April 2018 to 31 March 2019.

Alternative options considered and rejected:

That the organisation commonly known as Indigo request for discretionary rate relief as set out in the report be approved for period 1 April 2018 to 31 March 2019.