Issue details

At the 2025 Autumn Budget the Chancellor announced that the 2026 Supporting Small Business Relief (SSBR) scheme to support businesses from 1 April 2026. This support will limit bill increases following the April 2026 revaluation.

On 27 January 2026, the government announced that eligible pubs and live music venues in England will receive a 15% reduction on their business rates bills for the 2026/27 financial year.

The government expects all local authorities to use its discretionary powers to adopt a local policies to provide rate relief to all eligible businesses, and has provided guidance to local authorities. This report seeks approval of policies to support local businesses.