Businesses can apply for a reduction in business rates if they were affected by the pandemic. The deadline to apply is 5pm on 27 May 2022.

Councillor John Redpath, Lead Councillor for Economy, said: “The pandemic hurt our local economy in Guildford. We are here to support our local businesses and give as much help as we can. By helping them we know we are also helping the wider community.

“We hope to give a reduction between 30% and 50%. The amount will depend on the number of applicants. We wrote to 547 businesses we identified as eligible for this fund, however if you believe you are eligible please apply.”

Councillor Tim Anderson, Lead Cllr for Resources, said: “Over the last two years we have distributed more than £47.5million in government grants. We have offered business rate relief to businesses in the retail, hospitality and leisure sectors. These funds have given a lifeline to businesses. Residents and visitors have benefitted from the goods and services they have been able to continue to provide.” 

The support is available for those who were affected by the pandemic but were not eligible for the extra retail discounts in 2021. The grants have been secured through government funding to support businesses affected by the spread of Covid-19.

To find out more and apply see here.