Thousands of businesses across the borough could be due a relief on their rates should a new council scheme gain approval.

Wandsworth Council is planning to provide up to a £1000 reduction in rates in the coming financial year and 2015/16.

With up to 3,000 business in line for the reducation, it could see savings of £1.5m made.

Businesses that could qualify for rates relief from April include cafes, takeaways, pubs and bars, hairdressers, dry cleaners, post offices, food outlets and services.

To be eligible, they would need a rateable value of £50,000 or less. To apply they would need to complete an application form.

This scheme follows another launched last week with the intention of helping the borough’s smaller and medium sized businesses.

The Business Loans Fund, providing loans of up to £22,000, is to help businesses invest in equipment, boost sales, promote their product or services, or for use to safeguard jobs.

Finance spokesman for the council Guy Senior said: "We are keen to do what we can to help our shops and restaurants because they are the lifeblood of our high streets.

"Our town centres have weathered the recession relatively well, but we know times have been difficult for traders."

The scheme will be discussed at at the finance and corporate resources meeting at the town hall on Wednesday