Breadcrumb Trail
Business Advice
Whether you are starting a business or you have been running a business for many years, this page will guide you to find help on specific or general issues.
We have a wide range of services at our disposal to help local businesses with all their support and development needs. Services are provided by various organisations, including Manchester Enterprises, Chamber Link and the Chamber of Commerce. Our Primary Partner is Business Support Solutions, part of Manchester Solutions.
Business Support Solutions offers help and guidance for start-up, new and small businesses. Its objective is to encourage the creation of new businesses and to make sure these new businesses prosper and grow.
Business Link can offer advice and support to any type of business, whether you're starting up, already running a business or looking to grow and develop. It is a free service available online and through local advisers. Practical help to get your business in the right shape for the year ahead can be found through the real help scheme.
What taxes will I have to pay?
The HM Revenue & Customs website has information especially for people starting up their own business.
There is also a helpline run by HMRC offering advice on tax and National Insurance issues to newly self employed people: 08459 15 45 15. Lines are open from 8am - 8pm Monday to Friday and 8am - 4pm Saturday and Sunday.
Do I need planning permission?
Planning retains a balance between the need for a variety of new developments and the need to protect the environment and tries to ensure all development is environmentally sustainable.
Construction methods need to comply with the Building Regulations for which there is a separate set of approvals. More information can be found on our Building Control page.
You do not usually need planning permission just to work from home but certain circumstances require it.
Advice and guidance on planning permission can be found on our Planning pages.
Do I need a Licence?
Many businesses require a licence eg. hairdressers, pet shops and places of public entertainment. For appropriate advice and guidance covering all aspects of trading, licensing and public health legislation contact see Licensing pages.
What standards do I need to abide by?
Trading Standards and Consumer Services is a strategic Local Authority service contributing to the well-being of the local and business community through its enforcement activities and advisory services.
More information can be found on our Trading Standards pages.
Will I need to pay business rates?
Please visit our Business Rates pages for more information.
How do I find out about environmental regulations?
NetRegs provides free environmental guidance for small and medium-sized businesses in the UK. They aim to help you to understand what you need to do to comply with environmental law and protect the environment and may even help you to save money by showing you ways to use your resources more efficiently.
This page was last reviewed on 4 March 2009
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