To encourage new businesses and start-ups in three town centres as well as support existing businesses in the borough, Rochdale Council launched the Business Rate Reduction Scheme. It offers eligible businesses an 80% discount in the first year, a 50% discount in the second year and a 30% discount in the third year. The scheme covers a defined boundary in the town centres of Rochdale, Middleton and Heywood, and aims to encourage new investment and jobs, spur new business start-ups/entrepreneurship and support the wider town centres and its existing businesses. The scheme was established to improve the quality of the core town centre area for residents and visitors by filling vacant properties and create the environment for thriving businesses. Since its launch there have been 14 properties that have benefited from the scheme.