Flood-hit businesses set to receive 100% business rate relief, says PM

Prime Minister, David Cameron has confirmed that businesses hit by the recent spate of serious flooding will be given 100 per cent business rate relief.
 
Mr Cameron set out a package of measures designed to provide financial aid to the affected firms and homeowners.
 
Grants of up to £5,000 will be made available to homeowners in a bid to improve flood resilience, as well as a £10,000,000 fund to aid farmers whose land has been flooded, Cameron stated at Prime Minister’s Questions.
 
Eric Pickles, Communities Secretary, has already confirmed that councils will be able to claim 100 per cent of flood clean-up costs under the Bellwin scheme; an increase from the previous cap of 85 per cent.
 
“We’ll spend what is necessary to help families and communities get through this very difficult time,” said Cameron.
 
“I would like to praise our emergency services, volunteers, all those working for the Environment Agency around the clock. All military assistance that’s required is there – people only have to ask.”
 
Cameron’s announcement comes as the Local Government Association (LGA) urged the Government to focus on helping the emergency cash committed by Whitehall to reach the communities in need quicker.
 
Clyde Loakes, vice chair of the LGA’s environment and housing board, confirmed that councils had been working around the clock to protect communities from the devastating impact of the severe rain and prolonged flooding.
 
“With the weather showing no sign of easing, the relief and recovery effort will remain our top priority,” said Loakes.
 
“The commitment by the Government to fully fund the recovery effort will help the councils working tirelessly on the ground to protect residents, homes and businesses from the damage being caused by the heavy rains, strong winds and flooding.
 
“Councils are best-placed to understand where help is needed locally and it is vital that Government works with us to ensure that this money reaches affected communities as quickly as possible.”

Date published 14 Feb 2014 | Last updated 14 Feb 2014