Small businesses in Mansfield could lose out on their share of a remaining £100,000 in Government handouts to alleviate rates rises, Mansfield District Council has warned.

The council, responsible for sharing out a £360,000 of business rates relief over four years, said almost half of the first year’s £210,000 fund has yet to be allocated.

If it is not shared out by 31 March, it will be clawed back by the Government.

The Discretionary Business Rates Relief scheme aims to support small enterprises most affected by business rates revaluation.

Relief of up to £1,600 can be allocated to businesses on a discretionary basis by the council in the first year of the scheme.

Coun Roger Sutcliffe, Mansfield District Council’s portfolio holder for finance said: “This is a gift from the Government to small businesses.

“I urge business owners to check if they are eligible and make an application. It is a case of use it or lose it.”

Among the types of enterprises to benefit so far are filling stations, restaurants, shops, factories and warehouses.

More information and application forms are at www.mansfield.gov.uk/businessratesreductions