Finance Minister John O’Dowd has opened a new consultation on proposed changes to the Small Business Rate Relief (SBRR) scheme,a move that could directly benefit hundreds of small businesses across the Omagh area.
Announcing the consultation, the Minister highlighted his intention to strengthen support for small firms, saying:
“Small businesses are the backbone of our local economy, and I am committed to delivering positive, progressive changes to the rating system… creating a fair environment for all business sectors, fostering entrepreneurship, boosting occupancy of vacant properties and enabling smaller businesses to flourish.”
What’s being proposed?
The current SBRR scheme supports around 30,000 small business properties across Northern Ireland, representing £22.5 million in relief this year.
To increase support and reduce operating costs, the Department is considering two key changes:
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Increasing the level of rate relief offered, giving businesses a larger reduction on their bills.
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Raising the upper valuation threshold, meaning more properties could qualify for support.
Why this matters for Omagh
Local independent retailers, cafés, service providers, start-ups and rural enterprises across Fermanagh & Omagh could all benefit if the scheme becomes more generous.
For many small firms, relief on business rates can be the difference between surviving, growing, or closing.
Have your say
Minister O’Dowd encouraged local businesses and stakeholders to respond:
“This consultation gives businesses the opportunity to shape the final proposals. I would encourage everyone to have their say and help deliver local solutions to local challenges.”
The consultation runs for eight weeks and closes on 29 January 2026, with changes intended to take effect from the 2026/27 rating year.
For more details visit finance-ni.gov.uk
