The decision to reduce the rateable value of Amazon's Rugeley Fulfilment Centre has had a major local impact on council finances – and there are wider implications for the sector, says Bob Kean

Last month, The MJ reported that Cannock Chase DC in Staffordshire was facing a major financial challenge following Amazon's successful appeal to the Valuation Office Agency (VOA) to reduce the rateable value of its Rugeley Fulfilment Centre. Amazon is due to receive a refund of £3.2m. This has had a major impact on Cannock Chase DC and also on Staffordshire CC.