Mansfield District Council has established a new £360,000 scheme to support small local businesses most affected by this year’s business rates revaluation.

The Discretionary Business Rates Relief scheme will offer financial support to business ratepayers that can least afford the increases in their business rate bill.

Over the next four years the council will distribute £360,000 — provided by the Government — to help eligible businesses.

Coun Roger Sutcliffe, Mansfield District Council’s portfolio holder for finance, said: “The funding from this new scheme will really help small businesses, in particular those which have been most affected by their increased business rates.

“Along with the Government, we want to do all we can to encourage the entrepreneurial spirit and help our local firms to stay in business.

“It is crucial we provide support to our local business community where we can, as they are key partners when it comes to providing goods and services, creating jobs and boosting the local economy.”

Application forms are being sent to ratepayers who may qualify for this relief. Go to www.mansfield.gov.uk/businessratesreductions for details.