State aid
State Aid law is the means by which the European Union regulates state funded support to businesses. Providing discretionary relief to ratepayers is likely to amount to state aid. However, retail relief will be state aid compliant where it is provided in accordance with the De Minimis Regulations (1407/2013). The De Minimis Regulations allow an undertaking to receive up to €200,000 of De Minimis aid in a three year period (consisting of the current financial year and the two previous financial years).
South Ribble will not require an application for any relief awarded under these provisions, but do still require that all businesses that receive the relief must declare that any benefit they receive under these powers does not exceed the current State Aid restrictions. It is the businesses’ sole responsibility to ensure these limits are not exceeded. This declaration must be made on the form designed for this purpose. Further information regarded State Aid law can be obtained at State aid - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk).
An appropriate/responsible officer within the council has the authority to decide upon any application for this relief made under this policy taking into account the contents of this policy, the council’s priorities and policies and in addition the guidance provided by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government - Retail Discount Guidance.