Your business rates might be changing – here’s what you can do now to get ready
The Valuation Office Agency (VOA) is updating the rateable values for all commercial properties in England and Wales. We use these values to calculate your business rates bill.
The new values start on 1 April 2026, but you should act now to ensure you pay the correct amount later.
Steps to take now:
- Check the property details the VOA holds for you.
- Report any changes or improvements.
- Understand your current valuation.
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Budget consultation
We have launched our consultation on the 2026/27 budget and we need your views. We face a £1.9 million funding gap due to inflation and the rising cost of homelessness.
To balance the books, we are proposing a package of measures including back-office savings, using reserves, and changes to income.
Key proposals include:
- Parking - removing the 30-minute tariff, but introducing a cheaper £2.50 flat rate for evenings and a standard £8 all-day rate for long-stay car parks.
- Council Tax - a 2.96% increase (less than 12p extra per week for a Band D home).
- Garden waste - freezing subscription charges for the year.
- Efficiencies - saving £970,000 through internal management savings to protect frontline services.
The consultation closes on Thursday 8 January 2026.
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Best of British Fund - £1m available!
Airbnb has launched a new fund to support stays, experiences, and attractions that make British travel special. They are offering grants of up to £100,000.
They want to fund initiatives that support visitor experiences, from historic homes and local festivals to outdoor adventures and great food venues.
Who can apply: Small businesses, social enterprises, community groups, and cultural organizations in the following sectors:
- Nature & Outdoors - encouraging visitors to explore landscapes.
- Food & Dining - showcasing UK food culture.
- Music & Arts - highlighting creative influence and events.
- Culture & Heritage - protecting history and traditions.
The application deadline is 23.59 on 7 December 2025.
Funding competition - zero-emission vehicle manufacturing
The Department for Business and Trade has opened the DRIVE35 competition. This programme aims to transform the UK's automotive industry.
You can apply for funding to plan (feasibility studies) UK-based manufacturing facilities for zero-emission vehicle technology such as
- pilot scale manufacturing
- demonstration scale manufacturing
- industrial scale manufacturing
Your proposal is expected to help you build an investment ready business case, advancing your readiness for manufacturing at your targeted production maturity and volume.
Grant awards will be between £150,000 and £750,000, and the closing date for applications is 11am Wednesday 17 December.
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Community & Business Eco Partnerships Meet-Up
Join the Sustainable Futures Forum to build partnerships between local businesses, charities, and community groups. This event focuses on creating social value and positive environmental impact.
You will hear from businesses about their green goals and from community groups about the support they need.
- When: Tuesday 27 January, 11:30am - 2pm.
- Where: The Green Room, The Grand, Folkestone, CT20 2XL.
- Cost: Free (Local lunch included).
This is a great chance to network, share skills, and discuss sponsorship or volunteering opportunities.
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