Local Discretionary Rate Relief

The aim of the Local Discretionary Rate Relief (LDRR) is to support potential inward investors locating within the district, and Lowestoft in particular, as well as to encourage businesses seeking to expand and remain. This in turn supports the vision and the economic strategy element of the East Suffolk Business Plan and the actions relating to business support and training.

Any application received will be considered favourably where a business can provide significant employment opportunities, benefit the local supply chain and align with the key growth sectors identified within the East Suffolk Growth Plan of Energy, Tourism, Ports and Logistics and ICT.

Additional consideration will be given to applications which propose locating in Lowestoft and in particular within the strategic sites identified within the Lake Lothing and Outer Harbour Area Action Plan.

Other considerations will include:

• Demonstrating that your businesses presence will act as an anchor for attracting similar businesses, this may be related to your size, status and the particular sector you are operating within
• Demonstrating that your business will commit to upskilling its current and future workforce
• Demonstrating that serious consideration has been given to relocating to one of our Enterprise Zone sites, where businesses are eligible for 100% business rate relief (up to the state aid limit). A strong and compelling case will need to be provided as to why relocation onto one of these sites is not considered a viable proposition

Please note that applications which involve no immediate occupation of the premises will not be eligible.