From 1 April 2017, the Government is providing funding to local authorities so that they can give a discount worth £1,500 for office space occupied by local newspapers. This scheme has continued and has been extended to include 2024/25.

The award of this discount is considered to amount to State Aid . However, it will be State Aid compliant where it is provided, in accordance with the de minimis regulations EC 1407/2013. The de minimis regulations allow an undertaking to receive up to €200,000 'de minimis' aid over a rolling, three-year period.

Eligibility criteria

This relief is administered under the local powers discount contained in Section 47 of the Local Government Finance Act 1988.

• The relief is available to local newspapers only
• The property must be occupied by a local newspaper and used wholly or mainly as offices for journalists and reporters
• Only one discount is available per newspaper title and one property only
• Subject to State Aid limits

Exclusions

• Local council newspapers
• Online publications
• Local magazines

Application process

There is no application form for this local discount. To apply, please email ndr@stratford-dc.gov.uk with a statement confirming that you meet the criteria for relief. If you have any queries please contact Revenues on 01789 260993.