Deadline nears in rate relief scheme for companies

MANUFACTURERS in Kirklees struggling in the current economic climate are being reminded they have just over a week left to apply for rate relief.

The business rate relief initiative is now in its third round and to date 10 local businesses have benefited and jobs have been safeguarded.

Manufacturing has been hit hard by the recession and while previous rounds of rate relief have been aimed at larger companies, this round is open to smaller businesses.

The cash is available to manufacturers who employ between five and 49 employees and who can demonstrate that they are suffering short-term financial hardship because of the effects of the recession. If successful in their applications, they will receive a reduction in their annual business rates bill.

Kirklees Council’s Cabinet member for regeneration, Peter McBride, said: “Manufacturing businesses employ around 20 per cent of the workforce in Kirklees and many have been hit hard by the effects of the recession.

“We launched the rate relief initiative last year to specifically help larger manufacturing businesses deal with the effects of the recession. I am really pleased that we are able to offer further funding to help smaller manufacturing businesses in Kirklees.”

All applications must be received by 4pm on Friday, October 8, and will be assessed by a panel and businesses will be notified as soon as possible if successful.

The application form and other relevant information including a fact sheet and self-assessment form are available at www.kirklees.gov.uk/business or by contacting the council on 01484 221677.

Last year, Kirklees Council and the Government invested 730,000 in the initiative.