The Centre for Cities organisation says Supplementary Business Rates would raise more than £10bn nationwide over a 30-year period.
SBRs were supported by Sir Michael Lyons in his report into local government earlier this year and they have also been backed by a House of Commons committee.
Some key business people believe top-up rates is a better and more tax-efficient way of raising cash for local transport improvements than congestion charging.
Centre for Cities director Dermot Finch said: "Supplementary Business would also give businesses greater input into local decision-making. Government and local councils need to work with businesses to reach a consensus on how SBRs would work in practice."
A Treasury spokesman said: "The government will consider options for supplementary business rates, working with local government, business and other stakeholders.
"It is too early to be talking about what the final proposals will be. The government will report back before the end of the year."
What do you think? Have your say.
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paul teeque (29/08/2007 at 11:58)
Simon B, www.manchestertolltax.com (29/08/2007 at 12:54)
"Another" option that does not involve a 30 debt and the C-Charge, just like selling the Airport.
The C-Charge is nothing to do with improving public transport, saving the enviroment, or anything like.
It is new stealth tax.
shayla (29/08/2007 at 15:00)
But why didn't they look at that before spending so much money on a consultation?
Or did they? where did all the cash go?
rammylad, ramsbottom (02/09/2007 at 09:12)
Maybe we are now seeing why businesses were ever so slightly in favour as they could see it as a way out of an extra tax and instead tax the shoppers. Thanks guys.