Northern Ireland finance minister John O’Dowd has announced the extension of business rates relief schemes for 2026/27.
The schemes are:
- Small Business Rate Relief, which provides relief of up to 50%.
- Back in Business, which provides a 50% business rates discount for up to two years when a business occupies a retail property that has been vacant for at least 12 months.
- A scheme exempting external ATMs from business rates to maintain cash access in rural communities.
Speaking after the Northern Ireland Assembly debated the measures on Tuesday, O’Dowd said:
“Small businesses are the backbone of our local economy, creating jobs, helping grow our economy and supporting workers, families and communities.
“The extension of Small Business Rate Relief for a further year means that while consultation outcomes on enhancements to the scheme are considered, we will continue to provide around 30,000 businesses with reductions of between 20% and 50% on their rates bill.
“Importantly, on completion of the Budget process, I will also be making the case for further broadening of this key small business support measure to increase the scope of the small business rate relief and the overall number of recipients for 2026/27, utilising the £10 million set aside in my Draft Budget proposals for this.
“I want to see more support directed to businesses that provide vital employment and sustain workers, families, and communities.”
O’Dowd added:
“Since its restoration, the Back in Business scheme has helped bring long‑term vacant high street properties back into use, and helped businesses establish a strong foundation, create jobs and support the local community. Since May 2024, 113 businesses have benefitted from the scheme, receiving over £600,000 in rate support. The continuation of the scheme will create space for further business creation and growth.
“The extension of the schemes will continue to support new and existing businesses, as well as rural communities through retention of the rural ATM exemption. Retention of existing ATMs is especially important given the decline in the number of banks and the need to maintain access to cash in our local communities.”