MORE than 200 businesses in Warrington are due to benefit from savings of up to £8,000.

The government’s business rates retail discount scheme comes into effect this April and could see firms saving between £2,000 and £8,000.

Businesses which come under the relevant criteria can expect their relief to be applied automatically as part of Warrington Borough Council’s annual billing process.

Warrington BID communications officer, Isabelle Smith said: "The news of the saving will be welcomed by retailers and businesses across Warrington and comes during an exciting period of regeneration for the town.

"2019 will see the new Time Square Development drawing closer, we have just heard news about the town's award-winning Market, and a £1.9 million bowling alley will be opening up shortly in Golden Square."

The value of discount is estimated to be one third of a business’s annual bill and will be applied after mandatory reliefs and other discretionary reliefs have been applied.

Companies entitled to the relief will be occupied properties which are wholly or mainly being used as shops, restaurants, cafes and drinking establishments.

More specifically, they must be premises that are used for the sale of goods to visiting members of the public, offer specific services such as hair and beauty, travel agents, repair and tool/car hire or are used for the sale of food and/or drink to visitors.

Business owners with any queries regarding their eligibility for the discount are being encouraged to visit WBC’s website www.warrington.gov.uk/businessrates and to check their entitlement for the scheme.