Tandridge District Council has announced council tax and business rates relief for those impacted by the recent sinkhole in Godstone, as the community continues to grapple with the aftermath of the incident.
The council has pledged that residents and businesses affected by the sinkhole will not have to pay council tax or business rates while they are unable to use their properties. This decision comes despite the annual billing process having already been completed, with bills sent out to households and businesses. The council has reassured affected parties that they will not be liable for payments during the period of displacement.
Ongoing Efforts to Manage the Sinkhole Incident
The Godstone sinkhole remains a significant concern, with Tandridge District Council leading the response in collaboration with the Surrey Local Resilience Forum. Efforts are focused on ensuring the safety of the area and providing ongoing support to those directly impacted.
Further testing of the site, initially scheduled for this week, has been postponed due to safety concerns. The tests are now expected to take place next week, with results informing the reconstruction plans. The council is working in close partnership with Surrey County Council Highways to develop a robust plan for repairs.
Strengthened Security and Resident Support
Security around the affected area has been increased to ensure the safety of residents and properties. The council has also arranged supervised access for displaced residents to collect essential belongings from their homes.
In a positive development, six households have been allowed to return to their homes after a multi-agency technical team deemed their properties safe.
The council continues to provide regular updates and is in constant communication with affected residents. Temporary accommodation has been secured for those unable to return home, and the council has urged residents to contact them at 01883 722000 if their insurance companies refuse to provide accommodation.
Business and Community Support
In addition to the relief on business rates, the council is assisting local businesses with insurance claims and business continuity planning. Despite the disruption, many businesses in Godstone remain open, and the council encourages the community to continue supporting them during this challenging time.
Royal Mail has also stepped in to help affected households, holding mail at the Redhill Delivery Office for collection. Residents and businesses can collect their mail with valid ID, and no mail will be returned to sender.
Council Leadership Commits to Ongoing Support
Councillor Catherine Sayer, Leader of Tandridge District Council, emphasized the council’s commitment to the community during this difficult period:
“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.”
As the response and recovery efforts continue, residents and businesses can expect ongoing support from the council and its partners, with further updates to be shared as more information becomes available.
