Small businesses should be given money off their non-domestic rates, in a bid to encourage them to settle in Purley, according to residents and traders.
The view was expressed at a recent Purley and Kenley Neighbourhood Partnership meeting when some said "starter businesses" should receive a reduction in non-domestic rates, or uniform business rate, like charity shops.
The rate is set by central government. And Croydon council collects the money, currently 20 per cent of the non-domestic rate, for charity shops.
The Guardian contacted David Main, chief executive of South London Business, a joint venture between the South London Economic Development Alliance and the South London Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
He welcomed the suggestion, although he did say a permanent reduction would be unrealistic as the majority of businesses in South London are small.
January 29, 2003 13:00
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