Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council

Rural Rate Relief

Certain types of business in rural villages, with a population below 3000 may qualify for rate relief of 50%. Businesses that qualify for this relief are the sole general store and the sole post office in the village, provided it has a rateable value of up to £7000; any food shop with a rateable value of up to £7000; and the sole pub and the sole petrol station in the village provided it has a rateable value of up to £10,500. Local councils have discretion to give further relief on the remaining bill on such property.

The local council may decide to give up to 100% relief to any other business in such a rural village, with a rateable value of up to £16,500, if it is satisfied that the business is of benefit to the community and having regard to the interests of its council tax payers.

Application forms and further details can be obtained by contacting Terry Black on 01642 526795 or by e-mail at terry.black@stockton.gov.uk