Council offers council tax and business rates relief for residents and businesses affected by the sinkhole
Council offers council tax and business rates relief for residents and businesses affected by the sinkhole
Tandridge District Council is taking action to support residents and businesses affected by the recent sinkhole in Godstone. The Council understands the impact this is having on the community and those affected will not have to pay council tax or business rates while they are unable to use their properties.
While the annual billing process has already been completed and bills have been sent out, the Council assures residents and businesses they will not have to pay for the period they are impacted by this incident.
The sinkhole in Godstone remains a significant incident and Tandridge District Council continues to lead the response, with support from the Surrey Local Resilience Forum. The Council remains focused on ensuring residents and businesses receive the necessary support and appreciates their patience as efforts continue to resolve the situation as quickly and safely as possible.
Further testing has been delayed for safety reasons and will take place next week to assess the site before reconstruction plans can be developed. The Council is working closely with Surrey County Council Highways.
Security has been further strengthened and arrangements put in place to allow affected residents to collect essential belongings. Additionally, six households are returning home as a multi-agency technical team deemed their properties safe.
The Council is in regular contact with all affected residents with advice and support and has secured temporary accommodation for those who need it. If insurance companies are refusing to provide accommodation, please call the Council on 01883 722000.
Business support is also being provided with insurance claims and business continuity planning. Local businesses in Godstone are open.
Additionally, Royal Mail is holding mail for affected households at the customer services point at the Redhill Delivery Office. Mail will not be returned to sender and residents and businesses can collect their mail with valid ID.
Councillor Catherine Sayer, Leader of the Council, said: “The priority of the Council is to ensure residents and businesses affected by the sinkhole receive the support they need, including relief from council tax and business rates. We are committed to helping the community during this challenging time. Every effort is being made to support them and provide clarity on the next steps. Updates will continue to be shared as soon as they become available.”